Black Squirrel: Understanding This Unique and Mysterious Species

Introduction to the Black Squirrel

At Critter Stop, we specialize in humane wildlife removal, and one of the most unique animals we encounter is the black squirrel. These striking creatures are a rare variation of common squirrels, standing out due to their dark fur and intriguing genetics. While they are not a distinct species, their presence has fascinated wildlife enthusiasts and homeowners alike. If you’re dealing with squirrels on your property—whether they’re black, gray, or red—Critter Stop is here to provide professional, humane removal services with the highest quality and customer service.

Black Squirrel Origin and Genetics

The black squirrel origin can be traced back to North America, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where they evolved due to a genetic mutation called melanism. This condition causes an increase in dark pigmentation, resulting in their black fur. Unlike albinism, which removes pigmentation, melanism leads to excess eumelanin, giving them their deep, dark coats.

Melanism occurs due to a mutation in the MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor) gene, which alters fur pigmentation. Some black squirrels are completely jet black, while others exhibit black-and-gray mixed fur, commonly referred to as black-phase gray squirrels. Regardless of their unique coloring, they behave similarly to their gray and fox squirrel relatives.

Where Do Black Squirrels Live?

The black squirrel is most commonly found in select regions, including:

• Ontario, Canada – Cities like Toronto and London host significant black squirrel populations.
• Midwestern United States – Particularly in Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois.
• Washington, D.C. and Maryland – A well-documented black squirrel population has existed since the early 1900s.
• United Kingdom – Some populations were introduced and now thrive in parts of England.

If you’ve noticed black squirrels on your property and need expert removal services, Critter Stop offers humane and professional squirrel removal to prevent property damage and potential health risks.

Why Are Black Squirrels Rare?

Although the black squirrel is genetically identical to gray squirrels, its numbers are significantly lower due to:

• Genetic Recessiveness – In some regions, the melanistic trait is recessive.
• Predation – Black fur can be either advantageous or disadvantageous depending on environmental conditions.
• Competition – Gray squirrels often outnumber and outcompete black squirrels for food and shelter.

Since black squirrel species are part of the broader squirrel population, their presence can still lead to property damage, attic infestations, and chewed electrical wires. At Critter Stop, we specialize in safely removing squirrels from homes and businesses, preventing costly repairs and hazardous situations.

Black Squirrel vs. Gray Squirrel: Key Differences

Regardless of color, squirrels can become a major nuisance when they invade homes. Critter Stop is a trusted, humane wildlife removal company, known for excellent customer service and expert squirrel control. If you hear scratching noises in your attic or notice squirrel damage, give us a call for a free inspection.

Black Squirrel Behavior and Adaptation

Like their gray and fox squirrel relatives, black squirrels exhibit:

• Foraging Habits – They collect and store nuts, seeds, and fruits for winter.
• Nesting Instincts – Dreys (leaf nests) or attics become their preferred shelters.
• Aggressive Competition – Some studies suggest black squirrels may be more territorial than gray squirrels.

If black squirrels have made their way into your attic, they could be causing serious damage. Critter Stop provides effective exclusion techniques to keep your home protected.

The Role of Black Squirrels in the Ecosystem

Despite their rarity, black squirrels play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance by:

• Spreading seeds and promoting forest growth
• Serving as prey for hawks, foxes, and other predators
• Managing insect populations through occasional predation

While they contribute to the ecosystem, squirrels in attics can create fire hazards, insulation damage, and foul odors. Critter Stop offers comprehensive squirrel removal services, ensuring your home is protected.

Challenges Faced by Black Squirrels

Black squirrels face many challenges, including:

• Habitat Destruction – Urban expansion limits their natural homes.
• Road Traffic – Increased urbanization leads to more squirrel fatalities.
• Predation and Competition – Gray squirrels outcompete them in many areas.

Squirrels frequently enter attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys in search of shelter. If you suspect a squirrel infestation, Critter Stop has a fantastic reputation for humane removal and long-term prevention.

Black Squirrel Removal: Why Call Critter Stop?

While black squirrels may seem harmless, they can cause significant property damage if they nest inside your home. Here’s why Critter Stop is your best choice for squirrel removal:

✅ Experienced Professionals – Our expert team understands squirrel behavior and uses humane trapping methods.
✅ Comprehensive Inspection – We locate entry points and potential infestation sites.
✅ Safe and Humane Removal – No poisons or harmful traps—just ethical, effective solutions.
✅ Exclusion and Prevention – We seal entry points to prevent future infestations.
✅ Sanitization and Cleanup – We clean affected areas to eliminate odors and contamination.

How to Prevent Black Squirrel Infestations

To minimize the risk of squirrel invasions, consider:

• Sealing attic openings and vents
• Trimming tree branches away from your roof
• Using squirrel-proof bird feeders
• Keeping food sources like pet food and trash bins secure

However, DIY squirrel removal can be dangerous and ineffective. The best way to ensure complete removal and prevention is by calling Critter Stop, a highly-rated wildlife control company.

Contact Critter Stop for Professional Black Squirrel Removal

If black squirrels or any squirrel species have invaded your attic, don’t wait until the damage worsens. At Critter Stop, we pride ourselves on providing:
✔ Humane squirrel removal
✔ Top-rated customer service
✔ High-quality exclusion solutions

📞 Call us today for a free inspection at (214) 234-2616 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Let’s keep your home critter-free with safe and effective squirrel removal services!