Eastern fox squirrel (Fox squirrel) – Sciurus niger
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The map represents observations of this taxon, but it may not be used as a distribution map.
- Total squares
The map represents observations of this taxon, but it may not be used as a distribution map.
Origin and general distribution
Origin, introductions and distribution in Europe
The fox squirrel's natural range extends throughout most of eastern and central North America, to a small part of southern Canada and the north-east of Mexico (along the Rio Grande River and its tributaries). The species has been introduced to several states in the western United States, as well as two Canadian provinces (British Columbia and Ontario). All known introductions (42) are performed in the United States or Canada.
No wild fox squirrel populations are known in Europe, but the species is present as pets. Notices of sale have been posted on websites in Denmark, Austria, Germany and the Netherlands. In 2009, the Netherlands banned the sale and possession of fox squirrels.
Pathways and adaptation in Finland
The populations closest to Finland are in North America. The species is unlikely to spread to this country on its own.
Description text authors:
Katja Holmala (Luke) – updated 15.3.2016.
The chart shows temporal distribution of the observations, which is not the same as population increase/decrease.
The following biotope data have been recorded for observations of this taxa