Black Squirels

If you have been around campus, then you have probably seen a black squirrel. Among the squirrel populations, these black squirrels act just like the common gray squirrels, are treated just like the grey squirrels, and live with the grey squirrels. So, the question is what made these squirrels black?

Scientist believe “their dark, almost silky color stems from a genetic variation called melanism, a condition caused by an abundance of black pigmentation, melanin, in the skin, feathers or hair of an animal.”

Black squirrels can usually be found in urban areas because there are fewer predators, and they can blend in with the black “asphalt and utility lines.” So, if you live in the city, then you have probably seen a black squirrel, or you will see one.

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2008/02/10/2008-02-10_black_squirrels_on_long_island.html

Posted by: Sasha Rogers (5)

Update:

The black squirrels survive better in urban environments than in other environments. This is because their black fur, making them less visible to predators, blends in more with the black tar, pole lines, etc. found in the city than with the green grass, etc. found in places with less buildings and more nature. Other than fur color, the black squirrel has no major differences from the grey squirrel. The black squirrel is a still a squirrel, and so it will mate with another black squirrel or with a grey squirrel, it will live with other squirrels and behave just like other squirrels. However, one thing I have noticed based on observation, a black squirrel is usually seen around more black squirrels. I have not seen just one black squirrel among many grey squirrels. I have seen one black squirrel on one side of a path alone, while the grey squirrels were gathered on the other side, which was closer to their home. I haven't seen or read about too much interaction between a grey squirrel and a black squirrel, which leads me to believe that black squirrels are treated differently than grey squirrels in the squirrel population, but all the squirrels behave the same.