Why does a squirrel have white tail?

Squirrels don't always have white tails! It depends on the specific species.

Here's why some squirrels have white tails:

* Camouflage: The white tail can help squirrels blend in with snowy backgrounds in winter.

* Signal: The white tail can be a signal to other squirrels. It can be used to warn of danger, signal territory, or communicate during mating season.

* Distraction: When a predator is chasing a squirrel, the white tail can be a distraction, drawing the predator's attention away from the squirrel itself.

Here are some squirrel species known for their white tails:

* Eastern Gray Squirrel: This species often has a white underside to its tail, though the tail itself is usually gray.

* Fox Squirrel: This species can have a white tip on their bushy tail.

* White-footed Mouse: This species is not a squirrel, but it has a white tail that helps it blend in with the snow.

It's important to note that not all squirrels of these species have white tails. Coloration can vary depending on individual genetics, environment, and even age.