The specific terminology used for squirrels, particularly the names for their sexes and young, is often unknown to the general public. While squirrels are among the most common backyard animals, the precise nomenclature falls into a category of specialized knowledge often sought after by observers.
The Specific Terminology for Adult Squirrels
An adult male squirrel is formally referred to as a “buck.” This term is commonly applied to males across a wide range of rodent species, including rabbits and deer. Following a similar pattern, the adult female squirrel is known as a “doe.”
These terms—buck for the male and doe for the female—are the definitive nomenclature used when discussing the sexes of squirrels in a biological context. Applying these names helps maintain consistency across the classification of various small mammals. They serve as the standard descriptor for the adult sexes of this widespread rodent family.
Names for Young Squirrels and Groups
Young squirrels have a few accepted names. A young squirrel is most commonly known as a “kit” or a “kitten.” The term “pup” is also sometimes used, but “kit” remains the most widely recognized name for a baby squirrel.
Expanding beyond the individual, there are collective nouns used to describe groups of these animals. A group of squirrels is called a “scurry,” which aptly reflects their energetic and rapid movements. Another collective term, “dray,” is also used, though this word specifically refers to the squirrel’s nest itself, which is a compact structure of twigs and leaves built high in a tree.
Identifying Male and Female Squirrels Visually
Distinguishing a buck from a doe visually in the wild can be difficult, as the sexes often appear nearly identical in size and fur color. The most reliable way to determine a squirrel’s sex is to observe the external reproductive organs near the base of the tail.
A male squirrel can be identified by the presence of a scrotum, which is often more noticeable during the breeding season. The testes within the scrotum become prominent during this period, creating a slight bulge near the lower belly. In contrast, a female squirrel will have a vulva located very close to the anus.
A key identifying feature for the female is the presence of nipples, or teats, positioned along her abdomen. These mammary glands become particularly visible and pronounced if the doe is currently nursing a litter of kits. Observing the distance between the anal opening and the genital opening can also provide a clue; this distance is generally greater in the male than it is in the female. Using binoculars can greatly assist in spotting these subtle physical characteristics without disturbing the animal.