Squirrels of Central Texas: A Furry Field Guide
Central Texas is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and squirrels are no exception. These bushy-tailed critters can be found scampering through parks, forests, and even backyards. If you're curious about the different types of squirrels that call this region home, you've come to the right place.
The Most Common Squirrels in Central Texas
- Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): This is probably the squirrel you're most likely to see. They are large, with gray fur and a white belly. Eastern gray squirrels are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats.
- Mexican Gray Squirrel (Sciurus aureogaster): This smaller cousin of the eastern gray squirrel has a distinctive golden-brown coat. Mexican gray squirrels are typically found in more arid environments, such as scrubland and mesquite forests.
- Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger): Fox squirrels are the largest of the North American tree squirrels. They have a reddish-brown coat and a bushy tail. Fox squirrels are often found in pine forests and other wooded areas.
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Other Squirrels You Might See
- Texas Gray Squirrel (Sciurus texanus): This subspecies of the eastern gray squirrel is found in eastern and southeastern Texas. It has a slightly darker coat than the eastern gray squirrel.
- Western Gray Squirrel (Sciurus griseus): This squirrel is found in western Texas and other parts of the southwestern United States. It has a lighter gray coat than the eastern gray squirrel.
Fun Facts About Squirrels
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- Squirrels are highly intelligent animals. They are able to remember where they have buried nuts and seeds for later.
- Squirrels are social animals and live in family groups.
- Squirrels can run at speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
- Squirrels can live for up to 10 years in the wild.
How to Attract Squirrels to Your Yard
If you want to attract squirrels to your yard, there are a few things you can do:
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- Plant trees and shrubs that produce nuts and seeds. Squirrels love acorns, hickory nuts, and pecans.
- Provide a squirrel feeder. There are a variety of squirrel feeders available. Be sure to choose one that is squirrel-proof, so that other animals, such as birds, don't get into the food.
- Leave out some peanuts or sunflower seeds. Squirrels also enjoy these treats.
Squirrels: A Pest or a Friend?
Squirrels can be both pests and friends. They can damage trees and shrubs, and they can be a nuisance when they get into bird feeders or attics. However, they are also important members of the ecosystem. They help to disperse seeds and they provide food for other animals, such as hawks and owls.
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If you have problems with squirrels in your yard, there are a number of things you can do to deter them. You can try using squirrel repellents, or you can install squirrel-proof bird feeders. However, it is important to remember that squirrels are wild animals and that it is not always possible to completely eliminate them from your property.
So, the next time you see a squirrel scampering through your yard, take a moment to appreciate this fascinating creature. You might even be lucky enough to identify one of the different species that live in Central Texas!
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