As one of the most abundant forms of wildlife in Georgia, squirrels are animals that most residents of Georgia are familiar with. Belonging to the Rodentia family, these mammals are known for their long tails, furry coats, and sharp claws. But are there fox squirrels in Georgia?
They mainly have two classifications: ground squirrels and tree squirrels. The former prefer to reside in holes and the latter in trees, as their name suggests. There are two main types of tree squirrels that are common in Georgia: the fox squirrel and the gray squirrel, and the red squirrel.
This article concentrates on Fox squirrels in Georgia, so keep reading to find out more.
Description and Distribution
The Fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) is the largest species of tree squirrel in North America. They get their name from their characteristic bushy tail and their reddish-brown to greyish-brown fur. Their bellies are usually white or lighter in color than their backs.
These furry critters are usually common throughout the eastern half of the United States as well as in parts of the Midwest.
Though less common in Georgia, you will find them in urban and suburban areas but you can also come across them in woodlands and forests. An adult fox squirrel will be anywhere from 1 pound to about three pounds in weight.
Habitat requirements and feeding habits
Fox squirrels are mostly associated with wooded habitats just like their cousins, the gray squirrels. However, they can adapt to different types of environments. They are especially fond of open, savannah-like habitats that have wide-spread trees and open understories.
They can, however, also build their nests in hollow logs, stumps, or even in the ground. In Georgia, fox squirrels typically prefer to stay in mature pine or mixed pine/hardwood areas.
These animals are mainly active during the day (diurnal) and spend their time searching for food.
Their diet consists mainly of oak acorns & nuts, pine seeds, fruits, and tree buds. In the winter months when food is scarce, they have been known to eat bark, buried nuts & seeds, and even frozen fruit.
Reproduction and mortality
In Georgia, fox squirrels typically have two breeding periods per year, at the maximum: in the winter and summer. The capability to brood two times a year is mainly dependent on the abundance of food resources. Fox squirrels can use either leaf or cavity nests, even though they seem to use leaf nests more.
Fox squirrels have a gestation period of approximately 44 days. Litters usually consist of 2-3 young that are mainly reared by the female squirrels. The young fox squirrels are born blind and hairless but grow quickly, becoming independent after only a few weeks (8-12 on average).
The average lifespan of a fox squirrel is 3-4 years but they can live up to 10 years in the wild. These animals typically die from predation or disease but can also fall victim to car accidents or die from electrocution when climbing power lines.
Management and nuisance control
Although they are not a nuisance species per se, fox squirrels are mainly infamous for robbing bird feeders.
They also get into homes, and especially the attics of houses. If you have a problem with fox squirrels, there are a few things you can do to control them:
1. Trapping and relocating
One option is to trap and relocate the animals. You can do this by baiting a live trap with nuts or seeds and placing it in an area where you have seen the squirrels.
Once you have caught the animal, release it at least 5 miles away from your home or business.
2. Barred entry
Another option is to use exclusion methods to prevent the animals from getting into your property in the first place.
This, you can do by sealing off any openings leading into attics, crawl spaces, or other areas of your home. It may also help to trim trees and shrubs to prevent the animals from using them as a way to get onto your roof.
3. Shooting
If you have a hunting license, another option is to shoot the squirrels. This should only be done as a last resort and if you are a proficient marksman.
Make sure to consult a Wildlife Resource Division Game Management office before taking such action, however, to determine whether you need any permit. It’s always advisable to check your local laws and regulations before shooting any wildlife, in any case.
Related Article: Do Foxes Eat Squirrels?