[obol] OT - squirrels

[Ann Chamberlain]

Don't know who else to ask, but please, reply privately because this is 
not bird-related.

I have lived here for two and a half years and have never seen any type 
of squirrel closer than eight miles away, closer to town.  These have 
all been gray squirrels.

About three weeks ago, I saw what I am sure is a Douglas squirrel at the 
foot of my driveway.  Ear tufts, little, reddish, and carrying a Doug 
fir cone up a big cedar.  Saw it once more since, but that's all.

This week, a CA ground squirrel suddenly appeared at the house.  It is 
incredibly tame and I am wondering if it could be someone's pet that 
they released?  Why would a CA ground squirrel suddenly appear at 1400 
ft. in mixed conifer-aspen forest?  The closest ground squirrels I know 
about are at Wildlife Safari in Winston, a good 30 miles away.

Very strange indeed.  I have a personal anathema against squirrels after 
living in NJ for most of my life. The damage they did to my feeders I 
have not forgiven!  However, the little Douglas squirrel is adorable and 
far from the house.  The ground squirrel was contemplating the feeder 
yesterday but I told him no and he went away.  He is beautiful, I must 
say, and I hope he stays on the ground!

Any enlightenment would be appreciated.

Thanks - Ann in MC