Field-informed wildlife education for Tennessee homeowners and property managers.
Squirrels are among Tennessee’s most visible and active native mammals, commonly seen across Middle Tennessee neighborhoods such as Nashville, Franklin, and Murfreesboro, wooded foothills of East Tennessee, agricultural edges in West Tennessee, and river corridors along the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers. Mature oak and hickory canopy, park systems, and expanding suburban development provide abundant food sources and nesting opportunities.
While squirrels play an important ecological role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration, their climbing ability and strong chewing behavior often bring them into direct contact with homes. Homeowners may encounter squirrels nesting in attics, chewing rooflines or vents, entering wall cavities, or raising young inside structures.
Understanding how squirrels behave in Tennessee’s climate, when baby squirrels are present, and how to prevent conflicts humanely helps protect property while supporting responsible wildlife coexistence.
This guide is part of the Tennessee Wildlife Authority’s independent educational library, developed using regional field experience, wildlife biology research, and humane management best practices.
Scientific Snapshot
- Common Name: Tree Squirrels
- Primary Species in Tennessee:
- Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)
- Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger)
- Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans)
- Family: Sciuridae
- Native to Tennessee: Yes
- Average Lifespan: 4–8 years in the wild
- Adult Weight: 0.5–3 pounds (species dependent)
- Activity Pattern: Mostly diurnal (flying squirrels are nocturnal)
- Typical Habitat: Hardwood forests, urban trees, parks, neighborhoods, farmland edges
- Typical Den Sites: Tree cavities, leaf nests (dreys), attics, wall voids, chimneys
- Diet: Nuts, acorns, seeds, buds, fruits, fungi, occasional insects
- Average Litter Size: 2–5 young
- Conservation Status: Stable
Fun Facts About Squirrels in Tennessee
Squirrels are energetic, intelligent, and remarkably adaptable — which explains their success in both forests and neighborhoods.
- They help plant forests. Forgotten buried acorns often germinate into new trees.
- Their teeth never stop growing. Constant gnawing keeps incisors properly worn.
- Flying squirrels don’t actually fly. They glide using skin membranes between limbs.
- They use multiple nests. Squirrels rotate dens to avoid parasites and predators.
- They communicate with tail signals and vocal alarms. This warns other squirrels of danger.
Identifying Squirrels in Tennessee
Tennessee hosts three common tree squirrel species, each with distinct traits.
Eastern Gray Squirrel
- Gray fur with white underside
- Most common suburban species
- Frequently nests in attics
Fox Squirrel
- Larger body size with reddish or tan coloring
- Common in open woodlands and farm edges
Southern Flying Squirrel
- Smaller, nocturnal, large eyes
- Glides between trees and structures
- Often undetected until noises appear at night
Common identification traits include:
- Long bushy tail
- Strong hind legs for jumping
- Sharp incisors for gnawing
- Agile climbing behavior
- Rapid darting movement across rooflines and trees
Vocalizations include barking, chattering, squeaking, and alarm calls.
Squirrel Behavior and Habitat in Tennessee
Tennessee’s mixed hardwood forests, abundant mast-producing trees, and expanding residential development create ideal squirrel habitat statewide.
Behavior patterns commonly observed include:
- Daytime activity: Most squirrels are active during daylight hours.
- Seasonal food caching: Fall brings heavy acorn and nut storage.
- Den loyalty: Successful nest sites are reused across seasons.
- Roof travel routes: Power lines and tree limbs provide access to homes.
- Cold weather nesting: Squirrels seek insulated spaces during winter.
Common den locations in Tennessee include:
- Tree cavities and hollow limbs
- Leaf nests in mature trees
- Attics and soffits
- Wall cavities and chimneys
- Barns and sheds
Breeding Season and Baby Squirrels in Tennessee
Squirrels typically raise two litters per year.
Typical seasonal timing:
- Winter breeding: December – February
- Spring births: February – April
- Summer breeding: May – July
- Late summer births: August – September
Young remain dependent in the nest for 8–12 weeks. During this period, mother squirrels are highly protective and persistent when den sites are disturbed.
Homeowners may hear scratching, chewing, or chirping sounds overhead when young are present. Disturbing nests prematurely can strand juveniles and create legal and humane concerns.
Young squirrels should never be handled or relocated by homeowners.
Why Squirrels Enter Homes and Structures
Homes mimic natural tree cavities while offering warmth, protection, and stability.
Common attractants include:
- Warm attic insulation for nesting
- Chimneys resembling hollow trees
- Overhanging branches touching roofs
- Gaps in soffits, vents, and fascia
- Bird feeders and unsecured food sources
- Quiet seasonal shelter during storms and cold snaps
Once squirrels establish a nest, repeat use is common without proper exclusion.
Signs of Squirrel Activity Around Your Property
Early detection limits structural damage and fire risk from gnawing.
Common warning signs include:
- Scratching or running noises during daylight
- Chewing sounds in walls or ceilings
- Torn roof shingles or damaged vent screens
- Nesting debris near entry points
- Droppings in attics or around openings
- Sightings of squirrels repeatedly accessing rooflines
Health and Safety Considerations
Squirrels can introduce parasites and create electrical and fire hazards through chewing activity. While direct disease transmission risk is lower than some mammals, bites and contamination remain concerns.
Safety guidelines:
- Never attempt to handle squirrels
- Avoid direct contact with nesting materials
- Keep pets supervised around wildlife
- Repair entry points promptly
- Seek professional guidance when animals occupy structures
Wildlife Laws and Handling in Tennessee
Native wildlife in Tennessee is protected under state regulations. Homeowners should avoid trapping, relocating, or handling squirrels without proper authorization. Improper handling may violate wildlife laws and create humane risks.
Licensed wildlife professionals and local wildlife agencies provide guidance on lawful resolution when wildlife occupies structures.
View our Tennessee Wildlife Laws and Regulations Guide
Humane Prevention and Coexistence
Long-term prevention focuses on structural exclusion and habitat management.
Effective prevention strategies include:
- Sealing roof gaps, soffits, and vents
- Installing chimney caps and vent guards
- Trimming branches away from rooflines
- Securing bird feeders responsibly
- Inspecting roofs after storms
- Reinforcing fascia and eaves
Humane exclusion prevents repeat infestations while protecting wildlife populations.
The Ecological Role of Squirrels
Squirrels support Tennessee ecosystems by:
- Dispersing seeds and regenerating forests
- Supporting predator food chains
- Aerating soil through caching behavior
- Maintaining balanced woodland systems
Healthy squirrel populations contribute directly to forest health statewide.
Learn More About Tennessee Wildlife
Explore related educational resources:
For academic reference, consult educational resources published by the University of Tennessee Extension.
About This Guide
This guide is developed using regional field experience, science-based wildlife management principles, and a commitment to humane coexistence. Its purpose is to help Tennessee homeowners make informed decisions while supporting healthy wildlife populations.