What preys on squirrels?

Squirrels have a variety of predators, depending on their location and the size of the squirrel. Here are some common predators:

Birds of Prey:

* Hawks: Red-tailed hawks, Cooper's hawks, and Sharp-shinned hawks are all known to prey on squirrels.

* Owls: Great horned owls, barred owls, and screech owls are nocturnal predators that can easily catch squirrels.

* Falcons: Peregrine falcons are particularly adept at hunting squirrels, even in urban areas.

Mammals:

* Raccoons: These opportunistic omnivores will prey on squirrels, especially young ones.

* Weasels: Long-bodied, agile weasels can enter burrows and capture squirrels.

* Snakes: Garter snakes and other species of snakes may prey on squirrel pups and hatchlings.

* Bobcats: Larger, wild cats, like bobcats, can prey on squirrels, especially in areas where they coexist.

* Foxes: Red foxes and gray foxes are opportunistic hunters that may include squirrels in their diet.

* Coyotes: These canid predators may prey on squirrels, particularly in areas where they are common.

* Dogs and cats: Domestic dogs and cats can pose a threat to squirrels, especially if they are allowed to roam freely outdoors.

Other:

* Humans: While not a natural predator, humans often kill squirrels for population control or as a source of food.

* Large fish: In areas where squirrels live near water, they may be vulnerable to predation by large fish like bass or pike.

It's important to note that the specific predators of squirrels can vary widely depending on the region, habitat, and the size and age of the squirrel.