60-Day Gopher and Mole Guarantee Rodent Guys – Gophers, Moles, Ground Squirrels 60-Day Gopher and Mole Guarantee
Call 909-599-4711

Ground Squirrel vs Tree Squirrel: What's the Difference?

California Ground Squirrels vs Tree Squirrels in Southern California

Southern California has two types of squirrels that homeowners commonly encounter: California ground squirrels and tree squirrels (primarily the eastern fox squirrel). They look similar at a distance but live very differently and cause different types of damage.

California Ground Squirrel

The California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) is a native species found throughout Southern California. Key characteristics:

  • Brown with mottled gray and white flecking on the back
  • 14-20 inches total length including tail
  • Lives in underground burrow systems — does not climb trees
  • Active during the day, retreats underground at night
  • Lives in colonies — multiple individuals share interconnected burrow systems
  • Creates open burrow entrances 3-4 inches in diameter in slopes, along fence lines, and under structures

    • Ground squirrels cause significant property damage through burrowing — undermining foundations, retaining walls, and slopes. They also forage aggressively on gardens, orchards, and landscaping.

    Tree Squirrels (Fox Squirrel, Western Gray Squirrel)

    Tree squirrels are arboreal — they live in trees, not underground. The eastern fox squirrel (introduced to Southern California) and western gray squirrel are the most common tree squirrel species. Key differences from ground squirrels:

  • Spend most time above ground in trees and on structures
  • Do not dig burrows in the ground
  • Access buildings through roof lines, attics, and eaves
  • Nest in trees or in attic spaces
  • More prominently bushy tail, often held curved over the back

    • Which One Do You Have?

    If you are seeing a squirrel entering holes in the ground or along fence lines — ground squirrel. If you are seeing a squirrel climbing trees and running across roof lines — tree squirrel.

    Rodent Guys treats California ground squirrels. We do not treat tree squirrels, attic squirrels, or other wildlife entering structures — contact a wildlife removal specialist for those situations.

    Call 909-599-4711 for ground squirrel control throughout Southern California.

    Ground Squirrel Control Service | Ground Squirrel Damage | How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels