The Squirrel Squad of Georgia: A Tail-Tantalizing Tale
Ah, Georgia. The Peach State. Land of sweet tea, soulful music, and...squirrels? You betcha! Those fluffy little acrobats are more than just backyard nuisances stealing your birdseed (though they are excellent at that). Georgia boasts a delightful diversity of squirrel species, each with their own quirky personalities and impressive survival skills. So, grab a handful of peanuts (unsalted, please!), and let's get to know these furry residents.
The Main Course: The Most Common Critters
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The Eastern Gray Squirrel: The undisputed king of Georgia's squirrel scene. These agile athletes with their impressive bushy tails are practically everywhere you look - parks, backyards, even your rooftop! Fun fact: Eastern Grays can leap six times their body length, making them the Michael Jordans of the squirrel world.
The Fox Squirrel: Looking for a more rustically handsome squirrel? Look no further than the Fox Squirrel. These bigger, bolder guys are known for their reddish-brown fur and impressive appetites. They're particularly fond of acorns, which they bury like tiny, furry treasure hunters.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: A Look at the Less Common Squirrels
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Georgia's got more to offer than just Grays and Foxes. Keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating fellows:
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The Southern Flying Squirrel: Imagine a squirrel with a built-in parachute! That's the Southern Flying Squirrel, able to glide between trees thanks to a furry membrane stretching from wrist to ankle. They're nocturnal and shy, so spotting one is a real treat.
The Sherman's Fox Squirrel: This elusive cousin of the Fox Squirrel prefers longleaf pine forests. Think of them as the hipster squirrels of Georgia, living on the fringe and sporting a cooler-than-thou reddish-gray coat.
So You've Encountered a Georgia Squirrel... Now What?
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These curious critters are fun to watch, but remember, they're wild animals. Respect their space and avoid feeding them (unless you want them taking up permanent residence in your attic!).
How-ToSquirrel Savvy: Your Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to identify a squirrel? Look for a bushy tail, beady eyes, and quick movements. Eastern Grays are most common, with gray fur and a white belly. Fox Squirrels are bigger and have reddish-brown fur.
How to keep squirrels out of my bird feeder? Squirrel-proof feeders with special closures can help. Alternatively, offer them their own feeder with nuts and seeds to distract them.
How to attract squirrels to my yard (for birdwatching purposes)? Set out a platform feeder with a variety of nuts and seeds. Sheltered areas with plenty of trees will also make your yard squirrel-friendly.
How to get rid of a squirrel infestation in my attic? Contact a wildlife removal professional. Squirrels can cause damage to your home, so it's best to leave this to the experts.
How to tell the difference between a baby squirrel and a young mouse? Baby squirrels are larger and have a bushier tail than baby mice. If you're unsure, call animal control for assistance.
There you have it, folks! A crash course (pun intended) on the delightful world of Georgia's squirrels. So next time you see one darting across the street or burying a nut in your flowerbed, remember, there's more to these furry friends than meets the eye. They're acrobatic, resourceful, and undeniably cute. Just keep an eye on your birdseed!
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