Mammal 🐿️
🐿️
Sciurus carolinensis
| Size | 24–28 cm body (tail: 19–24 cm) About the size of a large rat |
|---|---|
| Weight | 400–600 g About the weight of a large pear |
| Lifespan | 2–3 years (up to 9 in captivity) |
| Rarity | Common |
| M vs F | Sexes look almost identical; males are slightly larger |
| Habitat | Woodland, parks, gardens, suburban trees |
| Best time | Year-round; most active in spring and autumn |
| Conservation | UK: LC |
Did you know?
Grey squirrels perform fake food-burying to confuse any thieves that may be watching — they cache the food elsewhere when they think they're being observed
Grey squirrels perform fake food-burying to confuse any thieves that may be watching — they cache the food elsewhere when they think they're being observed
More for experts
Their wrists can rotate 180° allowing them to descend tree trunks head-first — a capability the native Red Squirrel lacks
Often confused with
Red Squirrel (smaller, auburn, ear tufts in winter), Pine Marten (predator — longer, sinuous, no bushy tail)
Red Squirrel (smaller, auburn, ear tufts in winter), Pine Marten (predator — longer, sinuous, no bushy tail)