Definition

1. Noun:
   • A color variant of certain squirrel species: A "black squirrel" is not a distinct species but refers to either a fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) or an eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) exhibiting melanism, which gives it black fur.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We saw a black squirrel gathering nuts in the park. (This describes observing the animal.)
  • The black squirrel is a common sight on this university campus. (This uses the term to refer to the local population of these color-phase squirrels.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in biology and ecology to describe a phenotypic variation within a population.
  • The frequency of the black squirrel morph has increased in urban areas.

Variants and Related Words

• Melanistic squirrel: A more technical term for a squirrel with dark pigmentation.
• Gray squirrel / Grey squirrel: The common name for , which typically has gray fur.
• Fox squirrel: The common name for , which is typically larger and can have varied color phases including black.

Synonyms

• Melanistic fox squirrel
• Melanistic gray squirrel

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is zoological, referring to the color morph. It does not refer to a separate species.
• In some regions, "black squirrel" can colloquially refer to either species when it is black in color, as the average observer does not distinguish between the two similar-looking species.

Noun

1. fox squirrel or grey squirrel in the black color phase