Fox Squirrel Sciurus niger
Identification
This species has reddish brown fur with a large bushy tail. It is larger than the Eastern Gray Squirrel.
Location
Common statewide
Size
1.5 to 2.5 pounds
Diet
It feeds on nuts seeds fruits and insects.
Habitat
It occurs in open forests and agricultural edges.
Activity Period
Year round
Behavior
It is diurnal and prefers open woodlands. It spends more time on the ground than other tree squirrels. It remains active year round.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs twice per year with litters in spring and summer.
Population
The population is stable statewide.
History
It has long been common in Ohio.
Human Interactions
It is tolerant of humans and often seen in rural areas.
Facts
It is the largest tree squirrel in Ohio.
Sources
ODNR academic sources
Nuts seeds fruits insects | Open woodlands fields edges | Statewide