Fox Squirrel
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Fox Squirrels feed primarily on tree seeds, but are generalist eaters and will consume fruits, grains, buds, insects, bird eggs & small lizards. In their regular diet of nuts, fox squirrels are considered to be classic scatter-hoarders, burying caches of nuts in many locations, some of which are left unretrieved and germinate, growing new trees. Cannibalism has been reported, but should be considered very rare. The Fox Squirrel's natural range extends throughout the eastern United States, except New England, north into the southern prairies of Canda and west to the Dakotas, Colorado & Texas. Fox squirrels are mostly found in forest patches with an open understory, in urban neighborhoods with trees and on the golf courses. They prefer trees such as oak, hickory, walnut and pines that produce storable foods. A subspecies found in several eastern U.S. states, known as the Delmarva Fox Squirrel is listed as an endangered species. Fox Squirrels are non-territorial and spend more time on the ground than most other tree squirrels. They are, however, very agile climbers. They construct two types of nests called "dreys". Summer dreys are commonly little more than a platform of sticks & twigs in the branches of trees, and winter dens are usually hollowed out tree trunks sometimes shared with other mating couples. Breeding takes place twice a year, once in December and the other in June. The young are born blind, with no fur and helpless. Independent is reached at about three months and maturity after one year. Their maximum life expectancy is 12.6 years for females and 8.6 years for males. Humans, hawks, snakes and bobcats prey on the squirrels. The Fox Squirrel is playful and often seen chasing each other throught the trees, across yards and clearings. They have a large vocabulary and they warn the listening world of approaching threats. In the spring and fall, groups of fox squirrels clucking and chucking together can make a small racket. The Fox Squirrel is an impressive jumper, and can span fifteen feet in horizontal jumps!
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