Ontario is home to a diverse array of squirrel species, each with unique behaviors, habitats, and appearances. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a homeowner dealing with squirrels, or simply curious about the local fauna, this list provides detailed insights into the most common and interesting squirrel species found across Ontario. Discover what makes each type special and learn how to identify them in your backyard or local parks.
Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is by far the most prevalent squirrel species in Ontario. Recognizable by its predominantly gray fur with a white underside, it measures about 16-20 inches including its bushy tail. These squirrels are highly adaptable, thriving in urban, suburban, and forested areas, often seen darting through trees or foraging on the ground. Their adaptability and widespread presence make them a familiar sight for many Ontarians.
Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
The Red Squirrel is smaller than the gray, typically measuring 12-15 inches including its tail. It has a distinctive rusty-red coat with a white or cream-colored belly, making it easy to distinguish. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests, especially spruce and pine, where they gather and store cones for winter. They are more territorial and vocal than gray squirrels, often chattering loudly to defend their territory or warn of predators.
Northern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus)
The Northern Flying Squirrel is nocturnal and less commonly seen during the day. It has soft, grayish-brown fur and a membrane called a patagium that extends between its limbs, allowing it to glide between trees. These gliders are crucial for forest health, aiding in seed dispersal, and tend to inhabit mature, deciduous, and mixed forests. Their gentle, nocturnal nature makes them a fascinating species for wildlife watchers.
Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans)
Similar in appearance to its northern cousin but smaller, the Southern Flying Squirrel is also nocturnal and prefers deciduous forests in southern Ontario. Its fur is soft and gray with a slightly lighter belly, and it uses its gliding membrane to travel between trees. They are social animals, often nesting in tree cavities or squirrel boxes, and are known for their playful gliding leaps at dusk.
Eastern Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger)
Although more common in the southern United States, the Eastern Fox Squirrel has established populations in parts of Ontario, especially near urban parks and large wooded areas. They are larger than gray squirrels, with a reddish-orange coat and a bushy tail. Their size and striking coloration make them a standout species, and they are often seen foraging on the ground or climbing trees in parks and green spaces.
Southern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis carolinensis)
This subspecies of the Eastern Gray Squirrel is prevalent in southern Ontario. Slightly smaller than the northern gray, it exhibits a more uniform gray coloration and is highly adaptable to urban environments. They are known for their cleverness in caching food and their ability to thrive close to human activity, often seen in city parks and residential areas.
Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)
While primarily found in Europe, the Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) is sometimes seen in northern Ontario, especially in more forested regions with abundant conifers. Its bright red coat and bushy tail make it a striking species, but it is less common than other native squirrels. Conservation efforts help protect their populations, which face competition from invasive gray squirrels.
How to Choose
When selecting or identifying squirrels in Ontario, consider factors such as size, fur color, habitat preference, and behavior. For example, if you see a small, reddish squirrel in a conifer forest, it’s likely a red squirrel. Larger, grayish squirrels are probably Eastern Gray Squirrels, especially in urban parks. Nocturnal gliders like the Northern or Southern Flying Squirrels require a keen eye or evening sightings. Think about your environment and what behaviors or features stand out most to determine the species accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are squirrels in Ontario dangerous to humans?
No, squirrels generally do not pose a threat to humans. However, they can bite if cornered or handled improperly, and they may carry diseases like rabies, though rare.
Do all squirrels in Ontario store food for winter?
Most species, especially the Eastern Gray and Red Squirrels, are known for caching food like nuts and seeds to survive winter months. This behavior helps with seed dispersal and forest regeneration.
Can I attract squirrels to my yard?
Yes, providing food sources like nuts, sunflower seeds, and squirrel feeders can attract them. Planting native trees like oaks and pines also encourages natural foraging.
Are flying squirrels common in Ontario?
They are less common than ground or tree squirrels but can be spotted in mature forests during the evening or at night, especially in areas with abundant mature trees.
How can I tell the difference between gray and red squirrels?
Gray squirrels are larger with gray fur and a white belly, while red squirrels are smaller with a bright reddish coat and white or cream underparts. Behavior and habitat can also provide clues.
What threats do squirrels face in Ontario?
Habitat loss, competition with invasive species like the gray squirrel in some areas, and disease are primary threats. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and managing invasive populations.
Final Thoughts
Ontario’s diverse squirrel populations offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s wildlife. From the ubiquitous Eastern Gray Squirrel to the elusive Flying Squirrels, each species plays a vital role in their ecosystems. Recognizing these species and understanding their behaviors not only enriches your appreciation of local nature but also helps in making informed decisions about coexisting with these energetic and vital creatures. Whether you’re observing them in your backyard or exploring Ontario’s forests, these squirrels are a charming reminder of the region’s natural richness.
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