Conflict among Eastern and Western gray squirrels jeopardizes local wildlife: Find out how you can aid conservation efforts and distinguish between these squirrel species.
Squirrels can cause quite a stir in gardens, providing entertainment with their antics, yet also posing as pests when they dig up bulbs or scare off other critters. However, their conservation remains crucial for maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity. One significant issue is the competition between Eastern and Western gray squirrels.
The Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), originally from the east coast, was introduced to the west coast in the early 1900s. Since then, they've become a real threat to the native Western grays (Sciurus griseus), leading to a decrease in their numbers in human-dominated areas [1]. To minimize the impact on Western grays, it's essential to recognize the difference between these two species.
Although they may seem similar, there are a few subtle differences to watch out for:
- Size: Eastern grays are smaller, with a less bushy tail, while Western grays are larger and have a fluffier tail.
- Fur Color: Western grays tend to have a darker, richer gray fur compared to Eastern grays that may have a brownish tint. Western grays also have white-frosted edges on their tails, unlike Eastern grays that often have a variable-colored belly [1].
- Ears: Eastern grays have small, rounded ears without any tufts of fur, while Western grays' ears can be reddish-brown on the back in winter, with only a small patch of brown visible upon close inspection [1].
Why are Eastern grays posing such a threat to Western grays? Behavioral factors play a significant role. Eastern grays are more aggressive and dominant, easily taking over the habitat of Western grays [2]. In shared riparian areas, Eastern grays are even limiting the available habitat for Westerns [3].
You can help protect Western grays in your own garden by focusing on introducing native plantings, such as oak trees and berry-producing shrubs, to provide food and shelter for them. Additionally, avoid feeding squirrels directly to prevent attracting Eastern grays to your yard. To keep squirrels away from bird feeders, you can use deterrents such as baffles or repellents [1]. If you spot Eastern grays in your area, consider reporting their presence to local conservation programs to support their ongoing monitoring and management efforts.
While this post emphasizes the protection of Western gray squirrels, it's important to note that there are humane deterrents you can use if both Eastern and Western gray squirrels have caused chaos in your garden. For example, you can use spices like cayenne pepper to keep squirrels away or wire cloches to protect bulbs from digging [1].
Since the issue of Eastern vs Western gray squirrels is quite complex, here's a brief overview of a couple of recent studies on the subject:
- In a study published in 2024, researchers found a continued decline in Western gray squirrel populations in human-dominated areas, with the presence of Eastern grays identified as one of the main driving factors [4].
- A 2011 study by the University of Washington demonstrated that Eastern grays were displacing Western grays from shared riparian areas due to their aggressive behavior and successful reproduction rate [3].
References:[1] Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife[2] North California Wildlife Commission[3] 2011 study by the University of Washington[4] 2024 study in the Journal of Mammalogy
In the realm of environmental science, it's crucial to protect native species, such as the Western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus), from invasive species like the Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). Gardening choices can make a difference; incorporate native plantings like oak trees and berry-producing shrubs to create a suitable habitat for Western grays.
Maintaining a lifestyle that supports native species is an integral part of home-and-garden practices, which can help preserve biodiversity. By upholding these practices, we can ensure the survival of various species and their valuable contributions to our ecosystems.