Fox squirrels are found throughout Florida except for the Keys.
Named for its striking fox-like tail they are one of the largest squirrels weighing up to 3 pounds. They vary in color ranging from tan to mostly gray and even black.
They are often seen on golf courses in and around Gasparilla Island as well as near woods. Acorns, buds bulbs and insects are their favorite foods.
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Fox squirrels are found throughout Florida except for the Keys.
Fox squirrels run along the ground appearing like a small fox. They spend more time on the ground and are a lot slower than other squirrels.
Fox squirrels are fun to watch especially when they stand up on their hind legs eating.
Fox squirrels have many predators: raccoons, hawks, coyotes, bobcats and foxes to name a few. When a fox squirrel feels threatened it chatters while wagging its tail from side to side.
Fox squirrels harvest nuts, bury them and retrieve them when hungry. They use their front paws to dig a hole. They have a great sense of smell, which helps locate buried nuts.
Fox squirrels are vocal sometimes making raspy barking type noises coming down the side of a tree when a person approaches them too closely.
People are divided in their opinions of squirrels. Some enjoy watching the antics. Others call them "tree rats," particularly frustrated homeowners who have tried to keep them out of their gardens and bird feeders.
Squirrels are intelligent and usually outwit any traps. They sleep at night and have great vision, which helps them judge when to jump from one branch to another.
