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Name: Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) Reproduction: Usually 3-5 naked, eyes closed young are born in the spring and again to a lesser extent in late summer. Young remain with the mother for about 3.5 months Diet: Nuts, buds, berries, flowers, leaves and seeds Species Information: The grey squirrel is the most common species of squirrel found in the City of Ottawa. The name is misleading in that members of this species can be grey, dark brown or black. These clever creatures have adapted extremely well and thrive in cities throughout North America. They provide a spectacular show in acrobatics jumping from tree to tree and balancing on power lines. Although they can seek out attics and sheds, especially during the short birthing seasons, for the most part they create magnificent leaf nests in hardwood trees. These nests or dreys are particularly evident during the fall and winter months when leaf coverage is gone. It is for this reason mothers will seek out alternate shelter during the spring since young, who are born helpless, furless and with their eyes closed are very vulnerable to predation from crows, blue jays and other animals. Attics provide a short-term safe haven until babies are mobile and active, at about 8 weeks. Known for constantly stashing food, squirrels provide a vital ecosystem service of seed dispersal for many plants and trees. It is estimated that they retrieve about 80% of food stashed. |
 Photo courtesy of Brett Foster |
 Photo courtesy of Wendy Booth |
Red squirrels, although not as common as grey squirrels, can still be found throughout the City of Ottawa. The red squirrel is significantly smaller, less than half the size of the grey squirrel, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude. This chatty and cheeky character can often be seen chasing larger squirrels and crows away from food. Red squirrels tend to inhabit areas with more conifer trees. |