Hi All -

Here in the Moscow/Pullman area we have Eastern Fox Squirrels in town but
they are virtually unheard of outside of the city limits. I presume they
rely on bird feeders and acorns from planted (non-native) oaks in town. Once
you get into forest you will only find Red/Pine Squirrels and Columbia
Ground Squirrels in the grasslands (and forest clearings).

Someone mentioned Red Squirrels preying on nestling or fledgling birds and
they have also been found to be major nest predators (e.g. they eat the
eggs). I believe this was somewhat of a surprise when it was discovered by
biologist studying nest productivity. They were using motion activated
cameras to learn about causes of nest failures and learned that many failed
nests were predated by squirrels.

thanks,
Charles.

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Charles E. Swift work: charless at uidaho.edu
University of Idaho other: charless at moscow.com
Moscow, Idaho

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