South Carolina’s coastal pine forests are prime territory for the elusive Sherman’s fox squirrel, but the common types of squirrels in south carolina include several species you are likely to spot in your backyard or local park. From the energetic eastern gray squirrel to the striking fox squirrel, this state offers a surprising variety of these bushy-tailed rodents. Understanding these species helps you appreciate local wildlife and manage any encounters with them.
Whether you live near Charleston, Columbia, or Greenville, squirrels are everywhere. They scamper across power lines, raid bird feeders, and bury nuts in your garden. But not all squirrels are the same. Each type has unique habits, colors, and habitats. Let’s break down the main species you will find across the Palmetto State.
Common Types Of Squirrels In South Carolina
Eastern Gray Squirrel
The eastern gray squirrel is the most widespread squirrel in South Carolina. You see them in cities, suburbs, and forests. They have gray fur with a white belly and a long, fluffy tail. Their bushy tail helps them balance when jumping between trees.
These squirrels are active during the day. They eat acorns, nuts, seeds, fruits, and sometimes bird eggs. They are known for burying food to save for winter. If you have a bird feeder, you know how clever they are at stealing seeds.
Eastern grays are adaptable. They live in hardwood forests, pine stands, and urban areas. They build nests called dreys in tree branches. Sometimes they use tree cavities or even attics for shelter.
- Color: Gray with white belly
- Size: 9 to 12 inches long (body)
- Tail: 7 to 10 inches
- Weight: 14 to 21 ounces
- Active: Year-round, daytime
You might notice some eastern grays have black fur. This is a color morph, not a different species. Black squirrels are more common in some parts of the state, especially around urban areas.
Fox Squirrel
Fox squirrels are the largest squirrels in South Carolina. They can be twice the size of a gray squirrel. Their name comes from their reddish-brown fur, which resembles a fox’s coat. But color varies widely. Some are gray, black, or even orange.
There are two main types of fox squirrels in the state. The eastern fox squirrel lives in the Piedmont and mountains. The Sherman’s fox squirrel lives in the coastal plain. Sherman’s fox squirrel is rare and protected in some areas.
Fox squirrels prefer open woodlands with scattered trees. They like longleaf pine forests, oak savannas, and forest edges. They spend more time on the ground than gray squirrels. You often see them foraging in fields or along roadsides.
- Look for a large squirrel with a bushy tail
- Check for reddish or orange fur on the belly
- Notice the white or black nose markings
- Observe if it stays on the ground more than in trees
Fox squirrels eat nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi. They also eat insects and bird eggs. They store food in scattered caches. Their large size helps them defend food from smaller squirrels.
Southern Flying Squirrel
Flying squirrels are the smallest squirrels in South Carolina. They are nocturnal, so you rarely see them. They have a flap of skin called a patagium that stretches between their front and back legs. This lets them glide from tree to tree.
Southern flying squirrels are grayish-brown with a white belly. They have large, dark eyes for night vision. Their tail is flat and helps steer during glides. They can glide up to 150 feet.
These squirrels live in mature forests with lots of trees. They need tree cavities for nesting. They often share nests with other flying squirrels, especially in winter. They eat nuts, seeds, berries, insects, and even small birds.
If you want to see one, set up a nest box or a feeder with sunflower seeds at night. Listen for soft chirping sounds in the dark. They are social and live in small groups.
- Size: 8 to 10 inches total length
- Weight: 2 to 4 ounces
- Glide distance: Up to 150 feet
- Active: Nighttime
- Diet: Nuts, insects, fruit
Red Squirrel
Red squirrels are less common in South Carolina. They live mainly in the mountains and upper Piedmont. They have reddish-brown fur with a white belly. Their tail is not as fluffy as other squirrels.
These squirrels are smaller than gray squirrels but more aggressive. They defend their territory fiercely. They eat pine seeds, acorns, and mushrooms. They also strip bark from trees to get sap.
Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests, especially pine and spruce stands. They build nests in tree cavities or create dreys. They are active during the day. You might hear their loud chattering calls.
In South Carolina, red squirrels are found in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Look for them in places like Table Rock State Park or Caesars Head. They are not as common in the lowcountry.
Habitat And Distribution
Coastal Plain
The coastal plain covers most of the eastern part of the state. This area has sandy soil, pine forests, and swamps. Sherman’s fox squirrel is found here, along with eastern grays and flying squirrels.
Longleaf pine forests are key habitat for fox squirrels. These forests need periodic fires to stay healthy. Fire helps maintain open understories that fox squirrels prefer. Without fire, these squirrels lose their habitat.
Piedmont Region
The Piedmont runs from the fall line to the mountains. This area has mixed forests of oak, hickory, and pine. Eastern gray squirrels are abundant here. Fox squirrels also live in this region, especially in open woodlands.
Flying squirrels are common in mature forests with old trees. They need cavities for nesting. Red squirrels are rare in the Piedmont but can be found in higher elevations.
Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwest corner have cooler temperatures and different forests. Red squirrels are more common here. Eastern grays are still present but less abundant. Fox squirrels are found in lower elevations.
Flying squirrels live in the mountains too. They use high-elevation forests with plenty of dead trees. These areas provide good nesting sites and food sources.
Behavior And Diet
Feeding Habits
Squirrels are omnivores, but they mostly eat plant material. Their diet changes with the seasons. In spring, they eat buds, flowers, and insects. In summer, they eat fruits and berries. In fall, they focus on nuts and seeds.
Gray squirrels are scatter hoarders. They bury nuts in many different spots. This helps them remember where food is stored. They use their sense of smell to find caches later. Some nuts they forget, which helps trees grow.
Fox squirrels also hoard food but in larger piles. They sometimes defend their caches from other squirrels. Flying squirrels store food in tree cavities. They eat more insects than other squirrels.
Nesting And Shelter
Squirrels build nests for sleeping and raising young. Dreys are made of leaves and twigs. They are built in tree branches. Cavities in dead trees are also used. In winter, squirrels may use multiple nests for warmth.
Flying squirrels prefer cavities. They line them with moss, leaves, and fur. They often share nests to stay warm. Gray squirrels build dreys in deciduous trees. Fox squirrels use both dreys and cavities.
If squirrels get into your attic, they can cause damage. They chew wires, insulation, and wood. To prevent this, seal any gaps in your roof or eaves. Trim tree branches that touch your house.
Conservation And Management
Protected Species
Sherman’s fox squirrel is a species of concern in South Carolina. It is listed as rare and protected by state law. Habitat loss is the main threat. Development and fire suppression reduce their habitat.
If you see a Sherman’s fox squirrel, report it to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. They track populations to help conserve them. Do not disturb their nests or feeding areas.
Common Issues
Squirrels can be pests. They raid gardens, eat bird seed, and damage trees. They also chew on wooden decks and fences. To deter them, use squirrel-proof bird feeders. Plant flowers they don’t like, like daffodils.
If squirrels are in your attic, use humane traps. Relocate them far from your home. Seal entry points after removal. Do not use poisons, as they can harm pets and wildlife.
Benefits Of Squirrels
Squirrels play an important role in forests. They spread seeds and help trees grow. Their buried nuts often sprout into new trees. They also provide food for predators like hawks, owls, and snakes.
Watching squirrels can be entertaining. Their acrobatics and antics are fun to observe. They are a sign of a healthy ecosystem. By understanding them, you can coexist peacefully.
How To Identify Squirrels
Size And Color
Size is the easiest way to tell squirrels apart. Fox squirrels are large, up to 30 inches long including tail. Gray squirrels are medium, about 18 inches. Red squirrels are small, around 12 inches. Flying squirrels are tiny, only 8 to 10 inches.
Color also helps. Gray squirrels are gray with white bellies. Fox squirrels have reddish or orange fur. Red squirrels are reddish-brown. Flying squirrels are grayish-brown with white bellies.
Tail Shape
Tail shape differs between species. Gray squirrels have bushy, rounded tails. Fox squirrels have thick, fluffy tails. Red squirrels have narrow, less fluffy tails. Flying squirrels have flat, wide tails for gliding.
Behavior
Watch how they move. Gray squirrels are agile in trees. Fox squirrels spend more time on the ground. Red squirrels are fast and aggressive. Flying squirrels are only active at night.
Listen for sounds. Gray squirrels make barking calls. Red squirrels chatter loudly. Flying squirrels make soft chirps. Fox squirrels are quieter but may make low grunts.
Seasonal Activity
Spring
In spring, squirrels become more active. They mate and build nests. Young are born in late spring. You see more squirrels foraging for food. They eat buds and insects.
Summer
Summer is a busy time. Squirrels eat fruits and berries. They also store food for winter. Young squirrels leave the nest and learn to find food. They are curious and may approach humans.
Fall
Fall is peak feeding time. Squirrels gather nuts and seeds. They bury them for winter. You see them running across lawns and roads. Be careful driving, as they often dart into traffic.
Winter
In winter, squirrels are less active. They rely on stored food. They spend more time in nests. On warm days, they come out to feed. They may visit bird feeders more often.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common squirrel in South Carolina?
The eastern gray squirrel is the most common. You see them in almost every part of the state. They adapt well to urban and rural areas.
Are there black squirrels in South Carolina?
Yes, black squirrels are a color morph of the eastern gray squirrel. They are more common in some cities, like Columbia and Greenville. They are not a separate species.
How can I tell a fox squirrel from a gray squirrel?
Fox squirrels are larger and have reddish or orange fur. Gray squirrels are smaller and gray. Fox squirrels also have a more robust body and a thicker tail.
Do flying squirrels live in South Carolina?
Yes, the southern flying squirrel is found throughout the state. They are nocturnal and hard to spot. Look for them in mature forests with tree cavities.
Are Sherman’s fox squirrels endangered?
Sherman’s fox squirrel is not federally endangered but is protected in South Carolina. It is considered a species of concern due to habitat loss. Conservation efforts are ongoing.
Tips For Coexisting With Squirrels
Protect Your Bird Feeders
Use squirrel-proof feeders with cages or weight-activated perches. Place feeders away from trees and fences. Offer safflower seeds, which squirrels don’t like as much.
Secure Your Home
Check your attic and roof for gaps. Seal holes with metal mesh or caulk. Trim branches that are close to your house. This prevents squirrels from getting inside.
Plant Squirrel-Resistant Plants
Some plants deter squirrels. Daffodils, marigolds, and alliums are less appealing. Avoid planting nut trees near your house. Use mulch that squirrels don’t like, such as pine needles.
Enjoy Watching
Squirrels are entertaining to watch. Set up a camera or binoculars. Learn their behaviors and calls. They are a part of South Carolina’s natural heritage.
Conclusion
South Carolina is home to four main types of squirrels: eastern gray, fox, southern flying, and red. Each has unique features and habits. The common types of squirrels in south carolina are easy to identify with a little practice. Whether you live in the mountains or the coast, you can enjoy these lively animals. Respect their space and take steps to prevent conflicts. By understanding them, you can share your environment peacefully.
Remember to report rare sightings like Sherman’s fox squirrel to local wildlife authorities. Help protect their habitat by supporting conservation efforts. Squirrels are more than just backyard visitors—they are an important part of the ecosystem. Next time you see one, take a moment to appreciate its role in nature.