What Kind of Squirrels Live in Texas?

Squirrels live side by side with us, sometimes whether we like it or not. Adorable to some and a pest to others, squirrels are as diverse and adaptable as we are, and this is particularly true of the squirrels of Texas. The different types there have adapted to the challenging terrain, thriving even in areas where humanity struggles.

  1. Fox Squirrels

    • Larger than any other tree squirrel and 20% larger than the eastern gray squirrel, their nearest relative, fox squirrels are one of the more distinctive breeds. They can be between 19 to 29 inches long from head to tail and weigh up to three pounds. There are three color variations in the breed. Northeastern fox squirrels have grey backs and yellow bellies, western fox squirrels having gray backs with rust-colored bellies and southern squirrels tend to be black with white marks on their face and tail.

    Gray Squirrels

    • Texan gray squirrels favor tree canopies and swampy land. They favor dens in hollow tress but also like external leaf nests in trees which they construct of bark and give two openings. The Texas gray is highly prized as game and has been over hunted in the state. This, combined with the gradual erosion of their habitat due to draining and limbering operations has led to gray squirrel care becoming a pressing concern in the state.

    Antelope Squirrels

    • Antelope squirrels live in the southwestern desert regions of the state and favor low valleys and hills. They are opportunistic creatures and will often move in to burrows abandoned by other rodents. They are talented diggers that build their nests below ground with multiple openings and line it with rabbit fur, dried feathers and bits of cotton. They are distinctive creatures, often holding their tail arched forward over their back and are more comfortable on the ground than in trees.

    Mexican Ground Squirrel

    • Found in West Texas and Mexico, the Mexican ground squirrel is small with brown fur and rows of white spots on its back. They use three different types of burrows for nesting, hiding and hibernation respectively. They are experts at camouflage, and the entrances to these burrows are often very well concealed. They favor brushy and grassy areas with gravelly soi,l but they are not restricted to this type of ground or habitat.