used for multiple purposes, including
sunshade, balance and a diversionary
tactic against predators. Each also
uses a series of barks to communicate
with other squirrels against predators,
including raptors, snakes and foxes.
The eastern fox squirrel, which are
usually rusty colored but can be many
shades darker or lighter, resides in
much of Nebraska – from the Missouri
River to the Pine Ridge. Their habitat
consists of open forests with little
understory vegetation near waterways,
making them the perfect creek,
shelterbelt and neighborhood squirrels,
where open views abound.
Squirrels are susceptible to predators,
as they will sometimes move a mile or
more to gather food. Yet even when
food is close by, they can be seen in
Look for a clear head shot with a safe background when squirrel hunting.
This is how many of us
may remember our fi rst
times afi eld –with squirrel
gun in hand. While not
done as frequently as in
yesteryear, it remains a
wonderful way to interest
a new hunter in the
outdoors.
AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2015 • NEBRASKAland 51
PHOTO
BY
ROCKY
HOFFMANN
PHOTO
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
