![]() Since squirrels are also important avian nest predators, when squirrel abundance is high, nestling survivorship may be low for several songbirds within the squirrel’s range. When their target food sources produce a large “cone mast,” squirrel populations increase. However, since the conifers on which they feed produce seeds in approximately 3-5 year cycles, squirrel populations fluctuate in response to these seed and cone production cycles. The Red Squirrel is abundant and of little conservation concern throughout most of its range. They are active year-round, and in winter they often travel in tunnels under the snow.Red Squirrels enjoy maple syrup by “tapping” maple trees by biting into the bark to release sap, returning later to consume the concen- trated “syrup” once some of the water has evaporated.Squirrels may clip mushrooms and place them on tree branches for drying. While Red Squirrel diets consist mostly of conifer seeds, they are opportunistic feeders, also incorporating mushrooms, berries, and bird eggs and nestlings into their diet.Its frequent noisy chatter is the basis for one of its common monikers, the “Chickaree.”.Middens consist of large piles of shredded cones and stems under trees, with green cones in the middle. Red Squirrels create caches of food, known as “middens,” in late summer and early fall.Red Squirrel predators include several species of raptors, gray foxes, bobcats, coyotes, and weasels. Survivorship of juveniles is low, with approximately 22% of squirrels surviving their first year. Unlike the majority of mammals, Red Squirrels are diurnal, with peaks of activity in the early morning and late afternoon. These animals nest in tree branches or tree cavities each individual has several nests, and females often move their offspring between nests. ![]() *note flying squirrels are protected and do not have a hunting season.Red Squirrels are common avian nest predators Mountain Birdwatch tracks bird and predator population cycles.Some species may be taken by hunting primarily to resolve nuisance or damage issues. They are active in the daytime and offer challenging hunting opportunities. This is mostly due to their size and the fact that they provide the most meat to a hunter. The two largest tree squirrels (fox and gray) are by far the most hunted species.Learn more about the southern flying squirrel.Learn more about the northern flying squirrel.The membrane helps these squirrels glide from tree to tree. They have a loose membrane of furred skin attached between their front and back legs. Unlike bats, flying squirrels do not really fly.They utilize the many cavities that are found in mature trees for nesting and winter denning. Flying squirrels are entirely nocturnal, inhabiting mature forests and parks, as well as other woodlands.The northern flying squirrel inhabits the northern Lower and Upper Peninsulas, while its close relative, the southern flying squirrel, inhabits the southern Lower Peninsula. Two species of flying squirrels are found in the state.Chipmunks, woodchucks and ground squirrels have dens underground and rarely spend time in trees. In Michigan, there are nine different species of squirrels! Fox, gray, red, and flying squirrels nest and spend most of their time in trees. (Contrary to popular belief, when Groundhog Day comes in February, most woodchucks are still hibernating and do not come out to see their shadow!) For example, woodchucks (groundhogs) are herbivores, eating vegetation, and spend the winter hibernating when food is unavailable. Some squirrels spend the winter hibernating. Squirrels eat a variety of foods such as seeds, nuts, fruits, flowers, clovers, insects, eggs, and even young birds. Squirrels vary in size and habitats preferences, but many squirrels can adapt to living near people. There are nine different species of squirrels that can be found in Michigan.
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