The American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is not found on most of the Great Plains or in the southeastern United States, as conifer trees are not common in those areas. Red squirrels can be easily distinguished from other North American tree squirrels by their smaller size, 28–35 cm (11–14 in) total length (including tail), territorial behavior, and reddish fur with a white venter (underbelly). Red squirrels are somewhat larger than chipmunks. American red squirrels are primarily granivores, but incorporate other food items into their diets opportunistically. In Yukon, extensive behavioral observations suggest white spruce seeds (Picea glauca) comprise over 50% of a red squirrel's diet, but squirrels have also been observed eating spruce buds and needles, mushrooms, willow, leaves, poplar buds and catkins, bearberry, flowers and berries. American red squirrels eat a variety of mushroom species, including some that are deadly to humans. Major predators include the Canada lynx, bobcat, coyote, American pine marten, red fox, gray wolf, and ermine.
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