Western Gray Squirrel
Sciurus griseus
S. griseus are the largest native tree squirrels on the Pacific coast. They have a predominantly silver-gray coat with a white underside. Their tail is long, bushy, and d…
How to identify
S. griseus are the largest native tree squirrels on the Pacific coast. They have a predominantly silver-gray coat with a white underside. Their tail is long, bushy, and distinctively fringed with white hairs, giving it a frosted appearance. They have relatively large ears and strong claws for climbing.
Range
S. griseus, is native to the Pacific coast of North America. Their range extends from southwestern British Columbia in Canada, through Washington and Oregon, and into California in the United States.
Habitat
S. griseus are primarily found in oak woodlands, mixed conifer-hardwood forests, and riparian areas. They prefer habitats with a significant canopy cover and are less common in highly urbanized areas compared to eastern gray squirrels. They are highly arboreal and spend most of their time in trees.
Similar species
S. carolinensis have been introduced to parts of the western United States and are generally smaller with a less uniformly gray coat and a tail that is white-tipped rather than fringed. S. niger are also found in some introduced areas and are typically larger than S. griseus with more variable coloration, often including reddish-brown or black.
Name and etymology
griseus: Latin for gray
At a glance
Range
S. griseus, is native to the Pacific coast of North America. Their range extends from southwestern British Columbia in Canada…
Habitat
S. griseus are primarily found in oak woodlands, mixed conifer-hardwood forests, and riparian areas. They prefer habitats wit…
Guide
Mammals of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap