Sciurus carolinensis
The Eastern gray squirrel is one of a few different squirrel species native to Michigan, including the red squirrel, the fox squirrel, and a few varieties of flying squirrels. Within the city of Ann Arbor, they can be found chattering away in Nichols Arboretum, scampering up trees around campus, and searching for food in the different neighborhoods. They eat a wide variety of things ranging from nuts and tree buds to bugs and even frogs (1). However, what I find to be the most interesting thing about Eastern gray squirrels is the fact that some individuals are actually black. This is more common in the northern ranges of their habitat, such as in Michigan. It is theorized that this could be so common because it serves as a form of camouflage and helps keep the squirrels warmer in winter. In addition, they are found more often in cities. Winchell cites Gibbs, Buff, and Cosentino, saying, “Focusing on Syracuse, NY (where sampling was most thorough during the first year), they found that 65% of squirrels in the urban core were black whereas only 13% were black in rural habitat!” (2) This could explain why I see so many more black squirrels here in Ann Arbor than I ever did when I lived in a much more rural area about an hour and a half north of here. Even though I know my odds are better in a city like Ann Arbor, it still makes my day every time that I see a black Eastern gray squirrel because it feels special. Even though I have been startled many times by their chattering right next to me (squirrels here truly have no fear), it always makes me smile when I turn to look and see one that looks a little different from the typical squirrel.
Works Cited
Lawniczak, Mara Katherine. “Sciurus carolinensis: eastern gray squirrel.” Animal Diversity Web, 2002, https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Sciurus_carolinensis/. Accessed 28 January 2022.
Winchell, Kristin. “Natural Selection Favors Black Morph of Eastern Gray Squirrel in Cities.” Life in the City: Urban Evolution, 18 December 2019, https://urbanevolution-litc.com/2019/12/18/natural-selection-favors-black-morph-of-eastern-gray-squirrel-in-cities/. Accessed 28 January 2022.
Ecological Empire 