The Truth About Iowa’s Mysterious Black Squirrels

Black squirrels are not too terribly common, but they do exist and, we actually see them in higher numbers here in Eastern Iowa than many other parts of the country.

While at first glance you may think, "SKUNK!" Black squirrels are not skunks at all. They are, in fact, regular old Eastern Gray and Fox squirrels, the ones you see everywhere, with blakc fur.

But... why are their black varients on the common Eastern Gray and Fox squirrels? What causes it, and why are they common in Iowa?

The Reason There Are Black Squirrels

So, let's start with the basics: why are there even the black color varients for these squirrels? How does it happen?

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The black coloring comes from a genetic mutation that affects pigmentation.

While they may appear different, there areactually advantages black squirrels have over grey ones.

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When it comes to the black coloration, scientists think their dark fur either helps them hide better (called “crypsis”) or stay warmer in cold weather (thermoregulation).

I guess this makes them the cozy goth icons of the rodent world...

Where You'll Likely See Black Squirrels in Iowa

You’re most likely to spot them here in Eastern Iowa, but they're also more common in Central Iowa.

Cities where they pop up include Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Iowa City. While they have the same basic "rights" as other squatters in most places, Council Bluffs, Iowa, has enacted an ordinance that discourages attempts to threaten them.

So next time you see a squirrel that looks like it belongs in a leather jacket... now you know why!

And, if you think squirrels are cute or seem cuddly, you can certainly seek out the black squirrel.

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No, you won't likely get close enough to hug it, nor should you, but at least you'll be able to add the experience of seeing one in real life to your squirrels fandom!

Happy (visual) hunting!