Fox Squirrels build the "nest" high in trees; usually in the smaller branches where larger predatory animals cannot go. Many people think squirrels only build their nest inside hollow trees and this is true if a hollow tree can be found. Otherwise, their nest is made of twigs, various leaves and lined with the squirrel's own hair for insulation and strength. In southern Indiana we have two common types of squirrels; Fox Squirrel and Eastern Gray Squirrel, with the Fox Squirrel being, by far, the most common. It is uncommon to see Flying Squirrel but I have seen a couple in my lifetime.

Our small ranch has an abundance of squirrel food, plus neighboring fields of corn, keeps the squirrels busy stealing ear corn for those fields. Additionally, we have pine nuts, spruce nuts, various oaks, which produce acorns. Our walnut, hickory nut and pecan trees are all producing nuts for the squirrels to store for long cold winters. Squirrels are active during the day and do not hibernate, however, their degree of activity is curtailed on very cold days.

The squirrel nest photos I have posted are all around our small ranch; squirrels may have several nest "active" or using more than just one home.

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