Winter Squirrel Habitat

Squirrels are rodents comprising over 365 species. Within the species, the gray squirrel is the one most recognized, as it is the one most commonly seen in cities, towns, parks and yards. A squirrel's habitat is usually a hollow tree trunk or empty bird's nest, or it will build a den in tree branches.

  1. Winter Habitat

    • A squirrel's winter habitat can be built in a hollow tree trunk, the branches of a tree, a burrow, a bird's nest or the attic of a house. The squirrel will usually line it with moss, dried grass, twigs and feathers in winter. It will also build a cover for the nest or den. Some squirrels, like the gray squirrel, will have several dens and although an adult squirrel usually has its own, in winter it will share the den with other squirrels for warmth.

    Mating Season

    • Late winter is the most active season for squirrels because it is mating season. The mating ritual is performed by chasing each other at top speed through trees. The female chooses the strongest male to mate with but will not mate with that squirrel again. However, in extreme cold or severe weather, a squirrel may not leave the nest for days.

    Active Time

    • In the winter, squirrels will be the most active between dawn and mid-day. Once its activities are complete, such as gathering nuts and eating tree bark and fungi, it will remain in the den until the next day.

    Hibernation

    • Ground squirrels hibernate during the winter in their burrows or tunnels that they dig. Tree squirrels do not hibernate and will sometimes hide food in preparation for winter. The gray squirrel also does not hibernate and is unable to survive for long periods without food. Both the tree and gray squirrel can usually find their buried food by sense of smell.