09/30/2026
Eastern Gray vs. Western Gray Squirrels
Washington State is home to both Eastern gray squirrels and Western gray squirrels. Eastern grays were introduced to Washington in the early 1900s and are now common in many urban and suburban areas. Western grays are native to Washington and are much less common, with populations concentrated in certain parts of the state.
The squirrel in our photo appears to be an Eastern gray squirrel. Eastern grays can have gray, brownish, or even black coloring, while Western grays are generally a more uniform silver-gray with a distinctive white-edged tail.
Squirrels bury hundreds of nuts and seeds in different places and later return to find them. They eat nuts, seeds, berries, fungi and even insects. Some buried food is never recovered, which can help plants spread.
Unlike some animals, squirrels don't hibernate. They stay active throughout the winter and rely partly on food they have stored.
Squirrels can build round, leafy nests high in trees, often using twigs, leaves, moss, and other soft materials. They can also use hollow trees and old woodpecker cavities for shelter.
Their large, bushy tail helps with balance while they move through the trees and can also provide warmth when they're resting.
Want to help the squirrels in your yard?
β’ Plant trees and shrubs that produce nuts, seeds and berries.
β’ Leave natural areas, fallen branches, and mature trees when possible.
β’ Provide a shallow dish of clean water, refreshed regularly.
β’ If offering food, choose small amounts of unsalted nuts or seeds rather than processed human foods.
β’ Keep cats and dogs away from wildlife areas.
β’ Don't hand-feed or try to tame them. Keeping wildlife wild is best.
Sometimes the best way to help wildlife is simply to give them a safe place to live and watch from a distance.