American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
The smaller of the two squirrels observed in and around Montreal with a white belly and reddish fur on the back. Shyer than the Grey Squirrel, keeping a save distance from humans.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | American Red Squirrel |
| 🇫🇷 | Écureuil roux |
| 🇩🇪 | Gemeines Rothörnchen |
| 🇲🇽 | Ardilla roja americana |
Taxonomy
| Order | Rodentia |
| Family | Sciuridae |
Characteristics
| Length | 25-30cm |
| Weight | 150-250g |
Identification and Whereabouts
The color of the fur is different than the other squirrel species seen in and around Montreal. The Red Squirrel has a reddish fur on the back and a white belly. It is also shyer than the Grey Squirrel, keeping a save distance from the humans.
I have seen the Red Squirrel in Montreal Botanical Garden and Park Pointe aux Prairies but not in the other parks on Montreal Island. The species is around all year long. Better visible in winter when no leaves hinder the vision.
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jardin Botanique de Montréal | - | - | - | x |
| Parc de la Frayère | x | - | - | - |
| Parc Nature Pointe aux Prairies | x | - | - | x |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.
Captured Moments
Videos are hosted on YouTube. Click on a thumbnail to watch it.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2024-12-19