Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, Hendersonville is known for its charming downtown, vibrant arts scene, and natural beauty. But one lesser-known yet equally captivating feature of this town is its lively squirrel population. These agile creatures are a constant presence in parks, woodlands, and even backyards, where they charm both residents and visitors with their acrobatics and curiosity.
A Common Sight with a Unique Role
The Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is the most prevalent species in Hendersonville. With their soft gray coats, bushy tails, and quick movements, they are easily spotted darting between oak trees, burying acorns in grassy patches, or making daring leaps from branch to branch.
Squirrels might seem like simple creatures at first glance, but they play an important role in the local ecosystem. They are known as “accidental foresters” because of their tendency to bury nuts and forget about them. These forgotten stashes eventually grow into trees, contributing to the natural regeneration of the forests that surround Hendersonville.
Best Places to Spot Squirrels
One of the best places to observe squirrel behavior up close is Jackson Park, Hendersonville’s largest municipal park. With over 200 acres of wooded areas, open fields, and walking trails, Jackson Park offers an ideal habitat for squirrels. Here, they can be seen scurrying up trees, chasing each other in playful bursts, and occasionally approaching curious onlookers—especially those with snacks in hand.
The Oklawaha Greenway, a scenic 3.5-mile paved trail that winds through wetlands and wooded areas, is another prime location for squirrel-watching. The diversity of plant life along the greenway provides an abundant food supply, from acorns and berries to seeds and mushrooms.
Seasonal Behaviors and Nesting Habits
Squirrels in Hendersonville are active year-round, but their behaviors change with the seasons. In spring and summer, you might see females caring for their young in nests, which are usually built high in the trees out of leaves and twigs. These nests, called “dreys,” are surprisingly sturdy and often reused from season to season.
During fall, squirrels become especially active as they forage for food to store for the winter. It’s not uncommon to see them racing across lawns and sidewalks with bulging cheeks full of nuts. Winter doesn’t bring true hibernation for squirrels in this region, but they do slow down and spend more time in their nests, emerging on warmer days to forage.
Squirrels and the Human Connection
Hendersonville’s residents have a generally positive relationship with their bushy-tailed neighbors. Children enjoy watching them at play, while adults often consider them entertaining additions to the landscape. Some homeowners even put out squirrel feeders alongside bird feeders, though this can sometimes lead to squabbles over territory between the two groups.
However, squirrels can also be mischievous. Their sharp teeth are capable of chewing through wooden decks, attic vents, and even wiring, which has led to the occasional grumble from property owners. Wildlife experts recommend using squirrel-proof feeders and sealing off entry points to homes to avoid unwanted visitors.
A Symbol of Local Biodiversity
Squirrels may be small, but they represent a larger picture of local biodiversity and the health of Hendersonville’s environment. Their presence is a testament to the thriving green spaces that define the area. Whether darting through city parks or climbing ancient oaks in the surrounding mountains, squirrels are a reminder of the wild nature still very much alive in this charming mountain town.
Tips for Observing Squirrels Responsibly
If you’re hoping to get a closer look at Hendersonville’s squirrel population, keep a few things in mind:
- Respect their space: Avoid trying to pet or catch squirrels—they are wild animals, and it’s best to observe from a distance.
- Don’t feed them human food: Foods high in sugar and salt can harm squirrels. Stick to seeds or unsalted nuts if you want to offer a snack.
- Bring binoculars: Watching their interactions high in the treetops is fascinating and often more enjoyable with a bit of magnification.
Conclusion
Squirrels might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Hendersonville, NC, but they are an integral part of the town’s ecological and cultural fabric. Their playful nature and impressive adaptability make them delightful companions in both city parks and wooded trails. So next time you’re wandering through Hendersonville’s beautiful outdoor spaces, look up—you might just catch a glimpse of a squirrel making its next leap.