Squirrels are cute and funny rodents that are known for their furred bushy tails and inquisitive nature. In fact, that “banner tail” is so characteristic of the squirrel that it serves as the basis for naming these small mammals. The Latin word Sciurus (sk’yooris) means squirrel, and is derived from the Greek skia (shadow) and oura (tail).
The most common type of Squirrels in New York are gray squirrels, which can be black-furred, albino, or other variations of gray mixed with yellow-to-reddish brown. Other species found in New York State include the Red Squirrel, Fox Squirrel (mainly in the south), and the nocturnal Northern and Southern Flying Squirrels. Other aspects of the squirrel include chisel-like front teeth, sharp claws and strong legs to help navigate climbing trees or tunneling in the earth. Most species of squirrels are active during the daytime. Squirrels can live up to 8-10 years in the wild.
Websites
- Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)
- Mammals of the Adirondacks: Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
- The Gray Squirrel in the Adirondacks
- 5 Types of Squirrels That Live in New York! (2025)
- Gray Squirrel | Sciurus carolinensis
- THE SQUIRREL CENSUS
- Melanistic Black Grey Squirrels of New York (NY)
- Red Squirrel
- Wildlife Center of Long Island
- Northern Flying Squirrel Status – New York Natural Heritage …
- Eastern gray squirrel
- Squirrel Dreys: More than a Nest
- Fun Facts About Squirrels
- Squirrels – Hudson Valley Wildlife Solutions LLC
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