Results of the 2005 Brevard Squirrel Count

Under the supervision of the Heart of Brevard and the direction of retired Brevard College biology professor Bob Glesener, community volunteers conducted the 9^th Annual Brevard Squirrel Count this past Fall.  Because of logistical problems, only about 25% of the three square mile study area was sampled.  However, careful analysis of those sectors actually completed to the same sectors in previous years indicates that the results are representative of the whole study area.  This year's composite of 23.8% white is not far from the nine-year average of 24.4% (ranging from 21.6% to 26.6%).  The number of squirrels observed was slightly higher than usual this year although the count is not meant to be a census, only an estimate of the percentage of the white versus the gray variant.   Once again, the best spot for visitors to see a white squirrel is on the Brevard College campus with its combination of high overall abundance and high percentage of the white variant with a park-like landscape for easy viewing.  For more information on the squirrel count contact the Heart of Brevard or attend the third annual White Squirrel Festival this Memorial Day weekend.