Identifying the Eastern Gray Squirrel

While the gray squirrel is common, it can sometimes be confused with other tree squirrels. Knowing a few key “field marks”—distinctive characteristics used for identification—can help you confidently tell them apart.

Key Field Marks

The Eastern Gray Squirrel is a medium-sized tree squirrel, typically measuring 16 to 20 inches (40-51 cm) from nose to tail tip. Its body is covered in grizzled gray fur, which is actually a mix of brown, black, and white hairs. The underbelly is distinctly paler, usually white or light gray. The most prominent feature is its large, bushy tail, which is bordered by white or silver-tipped hairs, giving it a “halo” effect when backlit by the sun. They have small, rounded ears without tufts.

Common Lookalikes

Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger): This is the largest tree squirrel in North America. The key “tell-them-apart” cue is size and color. Fox squirrels are noticeably larger and heavier-bodied than gray squirrels. Their coloration is also different, most commonly a reddish-brown or “foxy” orange-brown, especially on their belly and tail. While some regional variations exist, they lack the gray squirrel’s distinct white-fringed tail.

American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus): The red squirrel is significantly smaller than the gray squirrel. Its fur is a distinct reddish-brown on top, with a bright white belly and a prominent white eye-ring. In winter, they often sport noticeable ear tufts, which gray squirrels lack. Red squirrels are also known for their hyperactive, chattering behavior and a preference for coniferous forests, though their ranges can overlap with grays.

A good mini-example for telling them apart: if you see a large, slow-moving, rusty-colored squirrel on the ground, it’s likely a Fox Squirrel. If you see a small, frantic, reddish squirrel with ear tufts chattering from a pine tree, it’s a Red Squirrel. The classic salt-and-pepper gray squirrel with a big, bushy, white-edged tail is your Eastern Gray.