tree squirrel

American  

noun

1. any squirrel of the genus Sciurus, with a long, bushy tail, familiar in parks and wooded areas throughout temperate regions.

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Etymology

Origin of tree squirrel

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

The monkeypox virus is primarily found in Central and West Africa, particularly in areas close to tropical rainforests — and rope squirrels, tree squirrels, Gambian pouched rats and dormice have all been identified as potential carriers.

From New York Times

It is primarily found in Central and West Africa, particularly in areas close to tropical rainforests — and rope squirrels, tree squirrels, Gambian pouched rats and dormice have all been identified as potential carriers.

From New York Times

Of all the things at which tree squirrels excel — burying acorns; raiding birdfeeders; gnawing on soffits — perhaps their greatest skill is leaping.

From Washington Post

Unlike tree squirrels, ground squirrels such as chipmunks hibernate.

From Washington Post

Flying squirrels are the smallest of the three tree squirrel species native to Florida, said Steve Johnson, an associate professor of wildlife ecology and conservation at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

From Seattle Times