ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Red Squirrel

 Red Squirrel

red squirrel

Red squirrels store conifer cones in middens, or piles, instead of burying them like their larger cousins do. The middens made by red squirrels can be up to 30 feet across and 1.5 feet deep!

red squirrel track

Red Squirrel Track
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Red Squirrel
Tamiasciurus hudsonicus

At-a-Glance

• Typical Foods: seeds, nuts, eggs, and fungi
Description
The red squirrel has a uniformly yellowish or reddish coat and a whitish belly. Its tail is bushy.

Habitat and Habits
This squirrel prefers coniferous and mixed forests. It is often found around structures.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Red squirrels breed April-May and August-September. They nest either in tree cavities or branches. Two to seven young are born per litter after gestation periods of 38 days.