Grey or black-coated tree squirrel with a bushy tail.
How to recognize it
Grey or black-coated tree squirrel with a bushy tail.
Where you may find it in Ontario
Mature trees, parks and residential yards. Local occurrence depends on habitat, region and season.
Food and ecological role
Nuts, seeds, buds and fruit. Every species is part of a larger food web involving plants, insects, birds and mammals.
When to look
Year-round.
Make your backyard more welcoming
Protect tree canopy; secure attic openings humanely.
Identification and safety
Use several features, not a single colour or silhouette, to confirm identification. Observe wildlife from a respectful distance; do not handle or feed wild animals. For species-specific photographs and further details, see the reference below.
Further reading: Species identification / reference. Also see Ontario backyard resources.