Sherman`s Fox Squirrel and the Florida Pine Snake

Sherman’s Fox Squirrel and the Florida Pine Snake
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is working with the
Florida Forestry Association and the Florida Forest Service to reach out to our forest
landowners for assistance in increasing our knowledge of the occurrence and
distribution of Sherman fox squirrels and Florida pine snakes on privately-owned land.
By reporting your observations of Sherman’s fox squirrels and Florida pine snakes, the
FWC can make more informed decisions about the future management needs of these
species and it could help keep these species off of the Federal Endangered and
Threatened Species list
Below is a space where you can report your observation(s). Please record your
sightings, then send this sheet to [email protected]. If possible, include a photo of
the animal and a description of the habitat where you observed it.
Sherman’s Fox Squirrel
Status: Species of Special Concern
Approximately 50% of suitable habitat for the Sherman’s fox squirrel can be found in
private ownership. This subspecies is only found east and south of the Suwannee River,
and tends to inhabit mature mixed pine-hardwood forests. Nests can appear similar to
gray squirrel nests but are usually found in hardwood stands. The Sherman’s fox squirrel
may forage and sometimes nest in pine plantations. They can often be found in
agricultural areas or on golf courses which often mimic the natural habitat of pine
sandhills and pine flatwoods characterized by low-density pines and oaks and low
groundcover. FWC needs additional data and sightings for this species statewide and is
currently conducting genetic analysis to better determine its status.
Sherman’s Fox Squirrel Sightings
County:___________________(circle where in the County you observed it, i.e., NE, NW,
SE, SW, and indicate the closest named crossroads in the immediate vicinity
__________________ and _________________.
OR Location: __________ Latitude, and ___________ Longitude.
Florida Pine Snake
Status: Currently Species of Special Concern, recommend State listing as Threatened,
candidate for Federal Listing
The Florida pine snake can be found statewide in pine sandhills and pine flatwoods and
up to 75% of suitable habitat may be in private ownership. It is non-venomous, and has
dark brown to reddish blotches on a gray to sandy-colored background. The average
adult length is 48-66 inches. Pine snakes are adapted for burrowing and can spend over
75% of their time underground. Pine snakes primarily feed on pocket gophers and
utilize their tunnels for shelter. It is known for its impressive defensive displays, which
include hissing loudly, raising its head, inflating its upper body, and vibrating its tail. FWC
is looking for any sightings of this species or of the Southeastern pocket gopher which
creates large sandy mounds (pictured above).
Florida Pine Snake Sightings
County:___________________(circle where in the County you observed it, i.e., NE, NW,
SE, SW, and indicate the closest named crossroads in the immediate vicinity
__________________ and _________________.
OR Location: __________ Latitude, and ___________ Longitude.
Thank you in advance for your help with developing a better understanding of the
occurrence and distribution of the Sherman’s fox squirrel and Florida pine snake.