GRAY SQUIRREL

The gray squirrel is about eighteen inches long; nine inches of this length is the long plumed tail that is not only decorative but functional as well. It serves as a parachute in long jumps, as an umbrella or blanket in inclement weather, and as a shaking finger of scorn, derision or anger, depending on the mood of the animal.

In many parks and gardens, the squirrel becomes tame enough to be fed by hand. It is not wise to handle such animals because they will quickly react with long teeth that can cut open a hand with the same dexterity that they open hard shelled nuts.

Gray squirrels prefer deciduous trees but in early fall will cut the cones of evergreens to obtain seeds. Nests are bulky affairs constructed of leaves and located in the branches of tall trees. Also used for a retreat are hollow trees or deserted woodpecker holes.

Squirrel hunting is a favorite pastime in the winter months. Nondescript dogs are used by some hunters to "tree" the little animals while other hunters prefer to "still" hunt. When cleaned and cooked, the popular rodent makes a tasty dish, especially when used as a base in Brunswick stew.

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