Facts About Gray Squirrels

Gray squirrels can live up to 12 years.

Gray squirrels are excellent climbers and build nests in trees, garages, attics, barbecue grills and cars. These agile animals are fun to watch and almost impossible to keep out of urban bird feeders. Gray squirrels are common and are found almost everywhere there are trees.

Activity

Gray squirrels are most active just after sunrise and just before sunset. It is rare for them to leave their nests at night.

Color

Not all gray squirrels are gray.

Despite their name, these squirrels can actually be gray, brown, black or white.

Age

Although they can live up to 12 years, gray squirrels that are more than 6 years old are considered old.

Predators

Gray squirrels can be preyed on by hawks, owls, raccoons, possums and foxes. Humans also prey on gray squirrels by hunting and trapping them.

Invading

These squirrels aren't native to the United Kingdom but were introduced during the 19th and 20th centuries. The introduction of gray squirrels there has harmed the country's native red squirrel population.

Sweat

A squirrel's sweat glands are on its feet.

Like humans, squirrels sweat when they are hot or excited. A squirrel's sweat glands are on its feet.

References

• Squirrel Place: Squirrel Facts
• Arcytech.org: Interesting Facts About Squirrels
• BBC: Gray Squirrel