Western Gray Squirrel

Western Gray Squirrel Photo Credit: Keith Kohl

Overview

  • Species Common Name Western Gray Squirrel
  • Species Scientific Name Sciurus griseus
  • State Listing Status Sensitive

Ecoregions

Special needs

Western gray squirrels occupy oak woodlands, oak savannas, and mixed oak-pine-fir woodlands. They prefer older oak trees with large limbs and continuous canopy cover to facilitate movement.

Limiting factors

Major threats include habitat loss, alteration, and fragmentation. Vegetation changes due to fire suppression and residential and urban development are among these impacts. Populations may also be adversely affected by road mortality and damage control efforts.

Conservation actions

Work with private landowners to maintain and restore oak and mixed oak-pine-fir woodlands, especially large patches. Work with landowners experiencing damage to trap/relocate squirrels. Maintain continuous canopy within 200 feet of nest sites. Maintain or plant mast species, such as Oregon white oak and California hazel. Maintain older trees with large limbs.