A large, heavy-bodied tree squirrel with a long, bushy tail. Has 3
distinct color phases; gray, dark brown, and black, all of which are
common in the Park. Has long ear-tufts which are shed in the spring
and grown out again by fall. Total length 20 inches.
Of the two kinds of tree squirrels in the Park, the
aristocratic-appearing abert or tufted-ear squirrel is predominant in
the montane or yellow pine valleys and ridges. They feed on the fine
branches of yellow pine and on pine cone seeds. Their large, bulky nests
of twigs and pine needles are placed high in the trees and are difficult
to locate.