Black squirrel

Genetic and Physical Description

The black coloration in eastern gray and fox squirrels is the result of a variant pigment gene. For eastern gray squirrels and western populations of fox squirrels, the black fur is primarily caused by a specific 24 base pair deletion in the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene, referred to as the MC1R∆24 allele. Research indicates this variant gene likely originated in black fox squirrels and was passed to eastern gray squirrels through historical interspecies mating, as the gene is identical in both species. In southeastern populations of fox squirrels, a different genetic mechanism, a point mutation in the agouti-signaling protein gene, is responsible for the black coat.

Melanism can also occur, though far more rarely, in other squirrel species such as the Columbian ground squirrel, Eurasian red squirrel, Richardson's ground squirrel, and western gray squirrel. The genetic basis varies by species, with melanism in Richardson's ground squirrels being due to recessive genes, and in Eurasian red squirrels and some fox squirrels, it is believed to be a polygenic result. Among eastern gray squirrels, the inheritance is straightforward, gray mating pairs cannot produce black offspring, as black squirrels must carry at least one copy of the black pigment gene. If a black squirrel has two copies of the black gene, it will be jet black, while having one black and one gray gene results in a brown-black colouration.

Approximately nine percent of melanistic eastern gray squirrels are believed to be jet black. In areas with high concentrations of black squirrels, litters of mixed-color individuals are common. Among eastern squirrels, gray mating pairs cannot produce black offspring. Black squirrels have either one or two copies of a black pigment gene, while gray squirrels have two copies of a gray pigment gene. If a black squirrel has two copies of the black gene it will be jet black, but if it has one copy of a black gene and one gray gene it will be brown-black.

Theories on Advantages of Black Fur

Two primary theories dominate scientific literature on why the black morph persists, crypsis for concealment and thermoregulation. The concealment theory suggests black squirrels have an advantage in dimly lit, northern coniferous forests, while gray squirrels are better camouflaged in deciduous forests. This theory posits that extensive deforestation and hunting since the 1700s may have reduced black squirrel populations by favouring gray morphs in the altered landscapes. For fox squirrels in the frequently burned forests of the southeastern United States, black fur may provide better camouflage against a charred substrate, making them harder to detect.

The thermoregulation theory is particularly relevant for Canadian populations. Research indicates black-coated animals have an 18 percent lower heat loss in temperatures below -10 °C, a 20 percent lower metabolic rate, and a higher non-shivering thermogenesis capacity compared to gray morphs. This thermal advantage is believed to have supported the northward expansion of eastern gray squirrels after the last glacial period, with black morphs reported as far north as Sudbury, Ontario. A 2019 study on fox squirrels found melanistic morphs could increase their surface temperature in both sunny and cloudy weather, allowing them to be more active during winter mornings.

A study published by the European Journal of Ecology in 2019 on eastern fox squirrels found that there was no difference in metabolic heat production between the color morphs. However, the melanistic morphs saw a noticeable increase in their surface temperature in both sunny and cloudy weather. This ability to gain heat in sunny and cloudy conditions is believed to be the reason why melanistic squirrels are more active during winter mornings. The black squirrel's higher heat gain for its surface temperature is the reason why they are able to be active earlier in the day and remain active longer.

Distribution and Population in North America

Natural populations of black morph squirrels exist within the ranges of their parent species, but their frequency varies dramatically. Black fur is generally rare, occurring in less than one percent of squirrels for both species, with an estimated one in 10,000 eastern gray squirrels being melanistic. The highest frequencies are found in the northern parts of the eastern gray squirrel's range around the Great Lakes Basin. In Ontario, black morphs account for 66 percent of eastern gray squirrel records on iNaturalist, and in Michigan, they make up 56 percent, forming the predominant colour morph in these regions.

Significant populations also exist in other Great Lakes provinces and states, with about 15 percent of squirrels reported as melanistic in those areas. South of the Great Lakes, black squirrel populations are more localized and less common. Conversely, black morphs of fox squirrels are most frequent in the southeastern United States, reaching a maximum frequency of about 13 percent. Notable populations also exist outside this core area, such as in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where approximately half the fox squirrels are melanistic, and these squirrels have since expanded across the Missouri River into parts of Omaha.

Black squirrels were found to be more common in urban areas as opposed to rural areas and forests. Among exurban populations of eastern gray squirrels, the black morph only occurs in high frequencies in Ontario and northern Michigan. It has been suggested that black morphs have a higher tolerance for human or urban stimuli. The frequency of the black color morph in the eastern gray squirrel populations is higher in the northern portions of its range, which includes the southern portions of central Canada and northern United States.

Introduced and Reintroduced Populations

Several notable populations of black squirrels stem from deliberate introductions or reintroductions. One of the most famous introduced populations is in Washington, D.C., originating from eighteen black squirrels captured at Rondeau Provincial Park in Ontario and released on the National Mall in 1902 and 1906, possibly to revitalize local squirrel populations. By 2005, black morphs comprised an estimated 5 to 25 percent of squirrels in the area. The introduction may have been part of a larger effort by the Smithsonian Museum to boost squirrel numbers diminished by hunting, and by the 1960s these squirrels had spread beyond the National Mall parks.

The present population of black eastern gray squirrels in Battle Creek, Michigan, was reportedly introduced in 1915 by John Harvey Kellogg, who wanted to repopulate the area with the species. He reportedly received 400 eastern gray squirrels from Kent County, Michigan, including some black morphs, and released them into the community. Researchers later trapped some black morph eastern gray squirrels in 1958 and 1962, and released them on the East Lansing campus of Michigan State University. Black morphs were once present in Ohio, although the color morph was extirpated from the state by 1930, but an initiative to reintroduce the black morphs was undertaken in 1961 by Kent State University, which released ten black squirrels from London, Ontario onto its campus.

Accidental introductions have also occurred, such as in Marysville, Kansas, where black squirrels were reportedly accidentally released from a circus exhibit in the 1920s. Eastern gray squirrels, including black morphs, were introduced to British Columbia in the early 1900s, notably to Stanley Park in Vancouver in 1909 and later on southern Vancouver Island in 1966. They are now well established in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. In Calgary, Alberta, most eastern gray squirrels, now predominantly the black morph, originated from escaped pets or zoo animals in the 1930s.

Behavioural and Ecological Notes

Studies comparing black and gray morphs of the eastern gray squirrel have found minimal behavioural differences. A 1990 study concluded there was no major difference in behaviour or in reactions to human or canid predators. However, a 2010 study suggested gray morphs were more prone to initiate flight after hearing a red-tailed hawk call, though this may be influenced more by the urban environment many black squirrels inhabit rather than pigmentation itself. This points to a potential higher tolerance for human stimuli among urban black morphs, and it has been suggested behavioural differences regarding mating may exist between urban and rural populations.

For fox squirrels, a 2019 study found no difference in metabolism between colour morphs. However, melanistic fox squirrels were about 30 percent more active during winter and spring mornings, likely due to their enhanced ability to gain heat from sunlight, while non-melanistic squirrels were more active in autumn. In Canada, eastern gray squirrels play an important ecological role in seed dispersal by gathering and planting acorns and nuts. They are highly adapted to urban environments, which has led to their establishment in cities like Vancouver and Calgary, where they thrive.

Eastern gray squirrels, including their black morphs, were introduced into British Columbia during the early 1900s. The species was also later introduced into other areas of Canada to which it was not native. Several populations of black morph squirrels were introduced into the area by accident. Some of these black morph populations have been embraced by their communities, although others are viewed as an invasive species to the local ecosystem.

Black Squirrels in Culture and Community

Many communities have embraced local black squirrel populations for branding and as unofficial mascots. This is evident in places like Kent, Ohio, home to Kent State University, and Battle Creek, Michigan. Some municipalities have even passed ordinances to protect black squirrels from threats, discouraging attempts to harm them. The squirrel was named the Garden Animal of the Year for 2026 in a public vote, reflecting its popularity and recognition in human culture.

The distinct appearance of black squirrels often sparks public interest and questions about their rarity. Spotting a black squirrel, given the estimated one in 10,000 frequency for eastern grays, is often considered a notable event. Their striking colouration against urban and natural backdrops makes them a memorable part of local wildlife for many Canadians and Americans, particularly in their core range around the Great Lakes. The animals have become symbols for several municipalities and post-secondary schools in the United States, integrating them into local identity.

Conservation and Coexistence Considerations

In regions where they are native, such as Ontario, black squirrels require no special conservation measures as they are a common colour variant of a widespread species. Management focuses on the overall eastern gray squirrel population. In provinces like British Columbia, where they are introduced, management is more nuanced. The BC SPCA emphasises that it is illegal to rehabilitate squirrels without a permit or to keep them as pets, advising the public to call their Animal Helpline for advice on found wildlife.

Feeding squirrels, whether black or gray, is discouraged as it can increase risks of injury, disease, and unnatural dependency. Squirrels are adept at finding their own food, even in cities, and do not require human assistance. The primary conservation concern in B.C. is preventing the further introduction and spread of eastern gray squirrels into new areas to protect potential niche habitats for native species. Current research indicates that in B.C., urban development and habitat loss are greater threats to native squirrels than direct competition with gray squirrels.

A health concern noted is Squirrelpox virus, which has not been reported in British Columbia but has been found in eastern gray squirrels in Ontario. In Europe, gray squirrels carrying the virus have impacted red squirrel populations. To maintain B.C.'s squirrelpox-free status, preventing further introductions of gray squirrels from their native eastern range is considered important. This precaution helps safeguard the health of local squirrel populations and prevents the spread of a disease that could harm native wildlife.

Questions about Black squirrel

Are black squirrels a separate species?

No, black squirrels are not a separate species. They are a melanistic colour variant of existing squirrel species, most commonly the eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and the fox squirrel (Sciurus niger). The black fur is caused by a genetic mutation affecting pigment production. In Canada, the black squirrels you see are almost always melanistic eastern gray squirrels.

How rare are black squirrels?

Black squirrels are relatively rare across most of North America. For eastern gray squirrels, it is estimated that only about one in 10,000 individuals is a black morph. However, their distribution is very uneven. They are quite common in specific regions, particularly around the Great Lakes. In Ontario, for example, black morphs account for about 66 percent of recorded eastern gray squirrels, making them the predominant colour there.

Why are black squirrels more common in places like Ontario and Michigan?

Black squirrels are the predominant color morph found in Ontario and Michigan. The black coat has been suggested as a selective advantage for squirrels inhabiting the northern ranges of the species, as it helps them inhabit colder regions. Black morphs of the eastern gray squirrel occur most frequently in the northern portion of its range around the Great Lakes Basin. The apparent thermal advantage has contributed to the expansion of the eastern gray squirrel's range northward following the end of the last glacial period.

I live in British Columbia and see black squirrels. Are they native?

No, eastern gray squirrels, including the black morph, are not native to British Columbia. They were introduced, with early releases in Stanley Park, Vancouver, in 1909. They are now well established in urban areas of the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. In B.C., they are classified as Schedule C animals, meaning their movement is regulated to prevent spread into new areas, and it is illegal to rehabilitate them or keep them as pets without a permit.

Can two gray squirrels have black babies?

No, two gray eastern gray squirrels cannot produce black offspring. The black colouration is determined by a dominant genetic variant. A squirrel needs at least one copy of the black pigment gene to display the trait. A gray squirrel has two copies of the standard gray gene. Therefore, for a black baby squirrel to be born, at least one parent must be black or carry the black gene.

What should I do if I find an injured black squirrel?

Do not attempt to care for it yourself. In Canada, it is generally illegal to rehabilitate wildlife, including squirrels, without proper permits. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your provincial animal welfare authority for guidance. In British Columbia, the public is advised to call the BC SPCA Animal Helpline. It is also important not to feed wild squirrels, as this can cause them harm and is not necessary for their survival.

Sources: Wikipedia and current public reporting, checked by the Your Space Hamilton desk. Last updated 2026-10-23.