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Project Noah Nature School
Sciurus carolinensis
This is STUBBY. He is a black squirrel with a white tipped tail. He was born in the woods behind my house and has been a regular since he was able to fend for himself. He has several siblings who also frequent my yard. He has a nest close by. When he was little he lost either the end of his tail or just the fur but when the fur grew back, it grew back white. He comes to the door when called and we toss a few nuts out for him. Everyone in the neighborhood knows and loves Stubby!
Scientists believe this black phase of the eastern grey squirrel is an example of natural selection. The originals, imported from Canada, escaped from the DC zoo early in the 20th century. The dark variety is an adaptation that apparently gives a selective advantage in winter by absorbing heat from the sun.
Ohh so cute you could add stubby to the Squirrel mission! what a great little guy!
Spotted on Mar 26, 2012
Submitted on Mar 26, 2012
