Douglas Squirrel (Tamiasciurus douglasii)
The Douglas Squirrel lives in the conifers along the Pacific coastline of North America. This herbivorous squirrel feeds on seeds, berries, nuts, and conifer cones but may add insects and bird eggs when food is scarce.
Unlike other squirrel species, the Douglas Squirrel remains active during winter, gathering and storing food in hidden caches to get through the cold months. These caches often sprout into new saplings, contributing to the forest's renewal.
Named after Scottish botanist David Douglas, the Douglas Squirrel is a common sight in the lush forests from British Columbia to central California.