Houston’s mild climate and abundant green spaces create the perfect home for several squirrel species. Whether you’re watching them dart across power lines in the Heights or spotting them in Memorial Park, these energetic rodents are constant companions in our city.
You’ll encounter five distinct species throughout the Houston area, each with unique characteristics and behaviors that make them fascinating to observe.
Understanding which squirrels share your neighborhood helps you appreciate the surprising diversity of wildlife thriving right outside your door.
Squirrels in Houston
Eastern Gray Squirrel
The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) reigns as Houston’s most common squirrel species. You’ll recognize these medium-sized acrobats by their sleek gray fur and distinctive white underbellies that flash as they leap between branches. Their bushy tails, which can measure up to nine inches long, serve as excellent balance tools during their impressive aerial maneuvers…