Grey Squirrel Information

The Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is one of the most familiar and adaptable mammals in North America. Native to the eastern and midwestern United States as well as parts of southeastern Canada, this agile tree-dweller has also been introduced to regions like the western U.S., Britain, and Ireland—where it has in some areas displaced the native Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris).

Whether you're caring for an orphaned squirrel, a wildlife rescue, a non-releasable

companion or just love to watch the squirrels in your neighborhood, it's essential to understand the behavior, biology, and environmental needs of this energetic species.

Quick Facts About the Gray Squirrel

• Native Range: Eastern & midwestern U.S., southeastern Canada

• Introduced To: Britain, Ireland, and parts of the western U.S.

• Size: Head & body 23–30 cm; tail 19–25 cm

• Weight: 400–600 grams

• Color Variants: Gray with white underside, but may also appear reddish, black, or white in certain regions

• Activity Pattern: Diurnal; most active at dawn and dusk

• Diet in the Wild: Nuts, seeds, buds, fungi, fruit, bark, and occasionally bird eggs or insects

• Reproduction: Females breed twice a year; males compete for mating through vocalizations and physical displays

Daily Life and Natural Behavior

Gray squirrels are non-hibernating, highly active animals that rely on daily foraging and movement to survive. Their intelligence and agility make them excellent climbers and problem solvers. In the wild, they build leafy nests called dreys in the forks of tree branches or hollow tree cavities. They also bury nuts and seeds for later retrieval using their keen sense of smell.

Understanding this behavior is key to providing a stimulating and healthy environment for a captive squirrel.

Creating the Ideal Habitat

Housing and Space

Captive squirrels require a multi-level habitat that mimics their forest home:

• Vertical height for climbing and jumping

• Multiple ledges and platforms

• Climbing ropes and branches

• Enclosed nesting areas for security

Enrichment & Mental Stimulation

Eastern Gray Squirrels are naturally inquisitive. Boredom can lead to stress, pacing, or destructive behavior, so rotating a variety of enrichment items is vital.

Types of Enrichment:

• Foraging Toys: Hide food to encourage natural scavenging

• Chew Items: Keeps teeth trimmed and satisfies instincts (we recommend natural antler chews!)

• Sensory Play: Introduce new scents, textures, or sounds

• Physical Activity: Allow ways to burn off excessive energy, like with exercise wheels

Nesting & Comfort

Squirrels need warm, safe nesting areas where they can sleep and retreat from activity. Provide:

• Nesting boxes or hideaways

• Natural nesting materials like shredded paper or coconut fiber

• Soft bedding that’s safe and non-toxic

Nutrition: What Should a Gray Squirrel Eat?

In the wild, squirrels are opportunistic omnivores. Their captive diet should reflect that diversity while offering consistent nutrition.

Core Diet:

• A staple diet like our Squirrel Complete or Beneficial Blocks

• Fresh vegetables (carrot, sweet potato, leafy greens)

• Limited fruit (apple, grape, banana)

• Protein sources like dried mealworms or dried crickets

Avoid processed foods, citrus fruits, and anything high in sugar or salt.

Seasonal Behaviors

Gray squirrels' activity and diet change with the seasons:

• Spring/Summer: Buds, berries, flowers, mushrooms

• Fall: Acorns, seeds, nuts—important for fat storage

• Winter: Bark, fungi, stored nuts

They remain active all year, even in cold climates, which means consistent food access and enrichment are essential through every season.

Final Thoughts

Caring for an Eastern Gray Squirrel is a rewarding experience that requires careful attention to habitat design, enrichment, nutrition, and behavioral needs. Whether you're supporting rehabilitation, long-term care, or providing enrichment to a backyard visitor, Exotic Nutrition has everything you need to support a squirrel’s health and happiness.