How Did the Eastern Grey Squirrel Come to Canada?
The eastern gray squirrel is one of the most notorious alien species. The World Conservation Union ranks it among the top 100 most invasive species. Its presence is a major issue for everyone, including the native species. Studies indicate that invasive species cost the global economy about US$1.4 trillion per year in economic costs, not to mention the damage they cause to ecosystems. So how did this invasive species come to Canada?
Table of Contents
Origin of the name Sciurus
The meaning of the name Sciurus is not completely clear, but it has its origins in Greek mythology. The name ‘Sciurus’ is derived from a Greek word meaning’squirrel’. Originally native to the eastern U.S., this species is now widely distributed throughout the western United States. In the Middle Ages, the name was also spelled’squyrel,’ and it was derived from Old French and Anglo-Norman forms of the name. The name scuriolus was a diminutive of ‘Sciurus’, and is believed to be a Latinized form of the Greek word skiouros.
Native range
The Eastern Grey Squirrel is a diurnal rodent that has adapted well to urban environments. Their peak activity hours are between two and five hours after sunrise and before sunset. This allows them to avoid the hot afternoon sun and stay cool and active. While males and females spend the majority of their time chasing rodents, females are more active during the winter months. Because of their social and cultural importance, they are often found near human dwellings.
Communication
It is hard to believe that this little creature can communicate with humans, but it can! Grey squirrels use their incredible sense of smell to find food under the snow. They contribute to the tree planting initiatives and countless other conservation efforts in the United States and Canada. You can often spot squirrel activity by spotting small holes and scrapings in the ground. If you see these signs, don’t be surprised! It’s not just chance that these tiny animals can communicate with humans, either.
Diet
The diet of the Eastern Grey Squirrel is somewhat mysterious. According to a Journal of Mammalogy article by Dennis A. Riege, the main foods that this squirrel consumes are nut and tree seeds. The grey squirrels also occasionally take insects, including ground-nesting bumblebees. However, there is no evidence that the greys are significant bird predators. One report shows that the greys have removed an abandoned kitten named Red from a nest, while other evidence suggests they will consume live slowworms.
Life expectancy
The eastern gray squirrel is a small rodent native to North America. While it has a life expectancy of up to thirteen years, it can live longer in captivity. In the wild, the gray squirrel can live up to twelve years, but in captivity, the lifespan is closer to twenty years. Life expectancy can vary between species, so it is important to learn about your local population’s life expectancy.
Threat to humans
The Eastern grey squirrel is an invasive species that is threatening the health and well-being of native mammals. Introduced into Stanley Park in 1909, they have since spread to deciduous woodlands throughout the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. While a valuable part of the ecosystem, their invasive nature is also a concern because they compete with native squirrel species for food and habitat. They may also pose a threat to human health as they are a carrier of the parapoxvirus, which can infect humans and livestock.
Invasive status in BC
Invasive status of the eastern grey squirrel is a concern for both homeowners and the environment. They damage lawns, gardens, and structures such as attics and chimneys. These animals are also destructive to fruit trees and ornamental plants. Fortunately, there are several ways to control the number of eastern grey squirrels in your yard. Here are a few common methods. Listed below are just a few of the most common ways to control these rodents:
What is the scientific name for the Eastern Grey squirrel?
Sciurus carolinensis
What does the Eastern Grey squirrel eat?
The Eastern Grey squirrel eats a variety of things such as acorns hickory nuts seeds berries fruit insects and even small birds and eggs.
Where is the Eastern Grey squirrel originally from?
The Eastern Grey squirrel is originally from the eastern United States.
When did the Eastern Grey squirrel first come to Canada?
The Eastern Grey squirrel first came to Canada in the late 1800s.
How did the Eastern Grey squirrel get to Canada?
It is believed that the Eastern Grey squirrels were brought to Canada by humans.
What is the range of the Eastern Grey squirrel in Canada?
The Eastern Grey squirrel can be found in southern Canada from Nova Scotia to Saskatchewan.
What is the coat of the Eastern Grey squirrel like?
The coat of the Eastern Grey squirrel is grey with a white underside.
How big is the Eastern Grey squirrel?
The Eastern Grey squirrel is about 35-45 cm long with a tail that is 15-20 cm long.
How much does the Eastern Grey squirrel weigh?
The Eastern Grey squirrel weighs between 500 and 700 grams.
What is the lifespan of the Eastern Grey squirrel?
The Eastern Grey squirrel has a lifespan of about 6 years in the wild but can live up to 16 years in captivity.
How many litters does the Eastern Grey squirrel have in a year?
The Eastern Grey squirrel has 1-8 litters per year with 2-5 young per litter.
When is the peak of the Eastern Grey squirrel’s breeding season?
The peak of the Eastern Grey squirrel’s breeding season is usually in late winter or early spring.
How long is the gestation period of the Eastern Grey squirrel?
The gestation period of the Eastern Grey squirrel is about 44 days.
What type of nest does the Eastern Grey squirrel build?
The Eastern Grey squirrel builds a nest made of twigs leaves and grass which is usually located in a tree.
What is the population of the Eastern Grey squirrel in Canada?
The population of the Eastern Grey squirrel in Canada is unknown but it is estimated to be in the millions.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.