Gray Squirrel

Overview

Gray squirrels rely on mast‑producing hardwoods and cavities; productivity tracks mast abundance. In younger stands with limited cavities, artificial dens can help. 

Natural History

Food

Pine seeds; acorns; hickory and beech nuts; berries/fruits; buds; fungi; insects. 

Cover

Large trees for refuges; dens in hollow trees or leaf nests. 

Reproduction

Two peaks (Feb–Apr; Jul–Aug); litters of 2–4; young independent at 12–14 weeks. 

Home Range & Survival

Home range ~4 acres (males slightly larger); young survival varies (≈5–30%) with mast availability. 

Habitat Requirements

Mature hardwood mixes; streamside zones with closed canopy; conserve mast species and den trees; avoid thinning that breaks canopy continuity needed for canopy travel. 

Management Recommendations

Timber stand improvement (release mast trees); retain den trees/snags; install squirrel den boxes where natural cavities are scarce. 

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