Fox squirrel

Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger)

The fox squirrel ( Sciurus niger) is a mammal of the order of rodents ( Rodentia ). It belongs to the family of squirrels ( Sciuridae ).

Features

The fox squirrel is the largest tree squirrel in North America. Its total length varies between 45 and 70 centimeters, of which the tail 20-33 inches. It weighs between 500 and 1000 grams. The coat is colored depending on the subspecies light brown - yellowish to dark brown - black. The belly is often brighter, some animals have white drawings on the face and tail.

Habitat and Distribution

The fox squirrel is found in the eastern half of North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico.

Way of life

Fox squirrels are lively and active during the day. They have even built nests or occupy tree hollows, where they are occasionally found in particular as pairs during the mating season together.

Food

The food of the fox squirrel is made of tree seeds, nuts, berries, fruits, bark, buds, insects, bird eggs, and small reptiles. They bury part of their stocks as winter reserve and carry through neglected plant seeds for the dissemination of these plants at.

Reproduction

Twice a year, in summer and in winter, fox squirrel offspring can get. The young are born blind and naked to the world. After about three months they become independent after a year of adulthood is reached. The maximum life expectancy is 12.6 years for females and 8.6 years for males.

Natural enemies

Among the enemies of the Fox Squirrel count next to the man ( hunting) hawks, snakes and bobcats.

Subspecies

• Sciurus niger niger
• Sciurus niger Avicennia
• Sciurus niger vulpinus
• Sciurus niger cinereus
• Sciurus niger shermani