Why Are Michigan’s Squirrels Such Unusual Colors?

When I first moved to Michigan from Kentucky a few years ago, I thought I was well-versed on squirrels. Back home, they were the standard gray ones, skittering up trees and raiding bird feeders. So, you can imagine my surprise when one day, I glanced out my window and saw a jet-black squirrel staring back at me.

At first, I thought it was some kind of shadow or a trick of the light, but no—this was a real, pitch-black squirrel casually hanging out in my yard.

This isn't the squirrel from my yard, I was too dumbfounded to grab a photo that day.

I couldn’t stop staring. Was this normal? Do people up here just act like this isn’t the most goth squirrel ever? Turns out, black squirrels are a very normal thing in Michigan. They’re not a separate species, though—they’re actually just a color variation of the eastern gray squirrel. Their darker coats help them blend in better with their surroundings, giving them an edge against predators. I couldn’t believe I’d lived my whole life without seeing one.

Then came the red squirrels. These fiery little creatures, with their fox-like coloring, are common here but rare in many other states.

 I’d never even heard of a red squirrel before moving to Michigan. I’ve since learned they prefer northern regions where their favorite foods—like maple seeds—are easy to find.

And just when I thought Michigan squirrels couldn’t surprise me any further, I found out about albino squirrels. Yes, pure white squirrels are real. They’re rare, but they occasionally pop up in urban areas or college campuses where they’re safer from predators.

You won't likely find one of these in your yard, but you might see one the next time you're in Ann Arbor or Lansing and visiting campus.

All together, 9 species of squirrel call the mitten state their home, meaning you probably have a rainbow of friends living in your yard. For me, Michigan’s squirrels have been a delightful surprise. They’re a little reminder that even in the most ordinary moments—like watching squirrels in your yard—there’s always something unique to discover.