Squirrels (family Sciuridae) are rodents characterized by strong hind limbs, sharp incisors, and (in many species) prominent bushy tails. The group spans arboreal (tree) squirrels, terrestrial ground squirrels, burrowing prairie dogs, large marmots, and gliding flying squirrels.
The tiniest squirrel is the aptly named African pygmy squirrel—only five inches long from nose to tail. Others reach sizes shocking to those who are only familiar with common tree squirrels.
These mammals, distinguished by their long bushy tail, occupy a wide range of habitats throughout the world. Most species of squirrels are hunted for food, but some tropical species are kept as pets, while the red squirrels are valued for their thick fur.
In this article, we will introduce 11 species of squirrels found in North America. 1. Flying Squirrels. Genus: Glaucomys. There are three species of flying squirrel in North America: the southern flying squirrel, the eastern flying squirrel, and the Humboldt flying squirrel.
squirrel, (family Sciuridae), generally, any of the 50 genera and 268 species of rodents whose common name is derived from the Greek skiouros, meaning “shade tail,” which describes one of the most conspicuous and recognizable features of these small mammals.
There are 272 species of squirrels that fall into three broad categories – flying squirrels, ground squirrels and tree squirrels. 7 In spite of their name, flying squirrels aren’t capable of flight – but they can glide.
From bustling city parks to the quiet depths of ancient forests, squirrels are ubiquitous, charming creatures that capture our attention with their boundless energy and acrobatic prowess. These nimble rodents, members of the Sciuridae family, are far more than just cute nut-hoarders.