Red squirrel

Description:

This red squirrel is one of the small mammals in Yellowstone National park in Wyoming. It is 11­–15 inches long and weighs approximately 6.7–7 ounces. Brownish-red on its upper half; dark stripe above white ventral side; light eye ring; bushy tail. Very quick and energetic. Has loud, long chirp to advertise presence. One of the park’s most territorial animals; controls territory to ensure winter food supply. Eats conifer seeds, terminal buds of conifer trees, fungi, some insects.

Habitat:

Spruce, fir, and pine forests; young squirrels found in marginal aspen habitat.