The Western Gray squirrel, which inhabits the mountains, and the Eastern Gray and Eastern Fox squirrels, which are more commonly found in backyards throughout urban and city neighborhoods. Tree squirrels feed on nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, greens, fungi and grains. A litter of three to six are born in January or February. A second litter is born in May or June. The young are fully weaned at about three months of age.
Squirrels build their nests of leaves and sticks.
Urban squirrels have adapted well to palm trees as well, and weave a large nest from the palm fronds. Mother squirrels maintain several nesting sites and are good caretakers of their young. She will usually retrieve the young from a fallen nest even if the tree has been removed, and move them to an alternate nest. Bird baths, pet bowls, bird feeders and gardens supply an abundance of food and water. Telephone lines and trees provide an easy access highway throughout our neighborhoods.