Squirrels
Species and Facts
The Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is one of the most common and recognizable species of squirrels in North Carolina. Key facts include:
Range: Found throughout North Carolina and much of the eastern United States, particularly in wooded areas, parks, and urban environments.
Activity: Diurnal, primarily active during the day, especially in the morning and late afternoon.
Peak Activity: Most active during the fall, when they are foraging for food to store for winter.
Mating: Breeding can occur twice a year (late winter and mid-summer), with the most active breeding period in February and June.
Birth: The gestation period lasts about 44 days, and a typical litter consists of 2-5 young.
Social Behavior: Generally solitary but can be seen in loose groups during foraging or mating seasons.
Diet: Omnivorous, primarily feeding on nuts, seeds, fruits, and occasionally insects and small animals.
Predators: Common predators include hawks, owls, snakes, and domestic cats.
Interesting Facts:
Gray squirrels have a remarkable ability to jump long distances, up to 10 times their body length.
They play a crucial role in forest ecology by helping to disperse seeds, which promotes forest regeneration.
Their bushy tails serve multiple purposes, including balance while navigating trees and acting as a parachute when they leap from heights.
Squirrels can nest in tree cavities or build nests called dreys made of leaves and twigs in tree branches.
Potential Issues
Humans may encounter challenges with gray squirrels due to their natural behaviors:
Common Occurrences:
Nesting in attics or chimneys, attracted by warmth and potential nesting materials.
Foraging in gardens and bird feeders, leading to consumption of plants or seeds.
Noise disturbances from their movement during the day or nesting activities.
Uncommon Occurrences:
Moderate property damage associated with chewing on wires or insulation, particularly when nesting in attics.
Accumulation of droppings, which can lead to sanitation concerns if left unaddressed.
It's important to remember that gray squirrels are simply following their instincts to find food and shelter.
Resolution Methods
Issues with gray squirrels can be addressed through various means:
DIY Solutions:
Seal entry points: Close off gaps in roofs, walls, and around chimneys to prevent access to attics and other areas.
Use squirrel-proof bird feeders to deter squirrels from raiding birdseed.
Remove attractants: Store birdseed and other food in airtight containers and clean up fallen seeds or fruits in gardens.
Trim tree branches that are close to the house to limit access to rooftops.
Professional Wildlife Control: Seek expert assistance for:
Proper species identification to ensure appropriate and humane resolution.
Safe and humane trapping and relocation if a squirrel is found in living spaces.
Exclusion services to secure potential entry points and reduce the likelihood of re-entry.
Home inspections to assess and mitigate risks of nesting and damage.