The Buckeye State's Bushy-Tailed Brigade: A Squirrel Spotter's Guide to Ohio
Ah, Ohio. The land of astronauts, Neil Armstrong taking one giant leap for mankind, and...squirrels? You betcha! Those fluffy little acrobats with a nut obsession are all over the Buckeye State, but you might be surprised by the variety of these furry friends scampering around. So, grab a bag of peanuts (unsalted, please!), settle in, and get ready to become an Ohio certified squirrel connoisseur.
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| What Squirrels Are In Ohio |
The Usual Suspects: A Rundown of Ohio's Common Squirrels
Eastern Gray Squirrel: This classic park pest (we kid, we kid...mostly) is probably the first squirrel that pops into your head. Bold and brassy, they're the most common squirrel in Ohio, particularly in eastern and southern regions. Keep an eye out for their ash-gray coat, impressive bushy tails, and a knack for darting across streets like furry grey torpedoes.
Eastern Fox Squirrel: Move over, gray squirrel, because there's a new sheriff in town (well, some parts of town anyway). The biggest squirrel in Ohio, the Eastern Fox Squirrel boasts a rusty-red coat and a preference for hanging out in woodlots and forests, especially in central and western Ohio.
Southern Flying Squirrel: Night owls rejoice! Ohio has its very own tiny daredevil, the Southern Flying Squirrel. These nocturnal ninjas are much smaller than their tree-dwelling cousins and have a furry flap of skin that stretches between their front and back legs, allowing them to glide from branch to branch. Just don't expect a superhero landing; they usually end their glides with a bit of a thud.
The Black Sheep (or Should We Say, Squirrel?): The Curious Case of the Black Squirrel
Ever seen a squirrel that looks like it raided a goth convention? Ohio might have just what you're looking for. There are pockets of black squirrels in the state, particularly around Kent State University. These aren't a separate species, but rather a melanistic version of the Eastern Gray Squirrel, meaning they have an excess of dark pigment. Think of them as the brooding emo teenagers of the squirrel world.
Tip: The middle often holds the main point.
Frequently Asked Squirrelly Questions:
How to Identify a Squirrel: Look for a bushy tail, beady eyes, and a general aura of scattered nuttiness. If it's darting around in the day, it's probably a Gray or Fox Squirrel. Spotting something that glides at night? That's your Southern Flying Squirrel. Still not sure? Take a picture and consult a squirrel identification guide (yes, those exist!).
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How to Attract Squirrels to Your Yard: Put out a feeder with nuts (like peanuts, acorns, or hickory nuts) or a seed mix. Just be prepared to share your bounty with birds and other wildlife as well!
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How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Bird Feeder: There are special feeders with cages or baffles that make it difficult for squirrels to access the goodies. Alternatively, you can surrender to their cuteness and just enjoy watching them.
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How to Deal with Squirrels Chewing on Your House: Squirrels can be destructive little critters. If they're chewing on your home, consult a wildlife removal professional for humane and safe solutions.
How to Appreciate Squirrels: These bushy-tailed bandits may be after your birdseed, but they play an important role in the ecosystem. They help disperse seeds, which benefits plant growth, and provide food for other animals. Plus, watching them scamper around can be pretty entertaining.
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