Eastern Grey Squirrel

Did you know?
that the introduction of the Grey squirrel in Europe has a detrimental effect on the native Red Squirrel? By out-competing and the transfer of a virus (parapox virus) Grey squirrel can be responsible for the extinction of the Red squirrels. And its habit of removing tree bark is extremely damaging to trees.

Photo Copyright by
TheJammingYam

Why do zoos keep this animal

Tree squirrels are among the species which readily choose the zoo as their habitat and become habituated to humans. In their North American range, there is, therefore, hardly a need for keeping grey squirrels in cages, and as a matter of fact almost none are reproted to ISIS. All photos on this page show free-living American red squirrels at North American zoos or city parks.

In parts of Europe, the presentation of grey squirrles may be of educational interest as an example of a highly invasive sopecies.

How this animal should be kept

Grey squirrels are solitary animals and should be kept singly, in pairs or in small groups of compatible animals, e.g. siblings, preferably with two adjoining enclosures allowing for separating the animals as necessary.

Minimum space requirement for a cage is 8 m²x 2 m high. However, cages of this minimum size do not make good exhibits. Squirrels are better presented in larger cages, at least 4 m high, with an adjoining observation hut, where the visitors can watch the animals through a glass panel, or in an open enclosure confined by 2.5 m high walls or glass panels, possibly with a hot wire on top.

Enclosures for grey squirrels must be amply furnished with branches or other climbing opportunities, and they need nest boxes for sleeping.

The diet of grey squirrels consists of nuts, acorns, sunflower and other seeds, fir cones, fruit, carrots, and branches in leaf, supplemented with some animal protein. Water should be permanently available.