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Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

The Eastern Grey Squirrel is a common and easily observed mammal in Montreal, present year-round in parks, green spaces, and residential neighborhoods. It is not particularly shy and is often seen approaching people in search of food. Despite this familiarity, wild squirrels should not be fed, as human food can be harmful and alters natural behavior.

At a Glance – Eastern Grey Squirrel

Why are Eastern Grey Squirrels so common in Montreal parks?

They thrive in city parks because they adapt easily and find plenty of food.

Eastern Grey Squirrels are highly adaptable and can live in both forests and urban areas. In Montreal, they benefit from the abundance of trees, human-provided food, and mild shelter in parks, which makes them visible all year long.

Is the Eastern Grey Squirrel the largest squirrel found in Québec?

Yes. The Eastern Grey Squirrel is the largest squirrel species occurring in Québec. Other larger squirrel species, such as the fox squirrel or the Indian giant squirrel, do not occur in the province.

Are all Eastern Grey Squirrels in Québec grey?

No. While most Eastern Grey Squirrels in Québec have grey fur, dark (almost black) individuals are common, and white individuals are occasionally observed. These color differences result from natural genetic variation. The white squirrels found in Québec are not albinos, as they retain normal eye pigmentation and normal coloration in exposed skin.

Best Locations and Seasons for Sightings

The Eastern Grey Squirrel is widespread throughout Montreal and can be observed in virtually all large and medium-sized parks, as well as in tree-lined residential neighborhoods and suburban gardens. Individuals are frequently seen moving between green spaces along streets and urban corridors.

The species is active year-round, with peak visibility during daylight hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.

"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 my park visit journals.

Identification and Similar Species

This species is distinguishable from other squirrels primarily by its fur coloration. The back is typically grey, though two notable color variants occur: a relatively common dark morph with dark brown to nearly black fur, and a rare white morph. The dark morph lacks the pale grey or white breast fur seen in the typical grey variant, appearing uniformly dark across the body. The white variant is not albino, as individuals retain normal eye pigmentation.

Similar Species

In the same habitats, you may also encounter the American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). This species is noticeably smaller and can be distinguished by its reddish dorsal fur, a distinct white eye ring, and a sharply contrasting white breast.

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: 2025-12-14