Definition

Noun: 1. A common medium-large squirrel of eastern North America; now introduced into England. This term refers specifically to the Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), a tree squirrel known for its gray fur and bushy tail. 2. A common reddish-brown squirrel of Europe and parts of Asia. This term also refers to the Eurasian Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), distinguished by its reddish coat and ear tufts.

Usage Notes

• Scientific Context: "Cat squirrel" is a common name, not a scientific one. It is used in general descriptions and historical texts. In modern biological or precise contexts, the scientific names ( or ) or the more common names "Eastern Gray Squirrel" and "Eurasian Red Squirrel" are preferred.
• Regional Usage: The use of "cat squirrel" to refer to either species can vary by region. It is an older or colloquial term.

Examples

• For the Eastern Gray Squirrel:
  • The cat squirrel, introduced from North America, has become widespread in British parks.
  • We watched a cat squirrel deftly bury an acorn in the yard.
• For the Eurasian Red Squirrel:
  • The pine forests are home to the native cat squirrel.
  • A bright red cat squirrel darted across the path.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Narrative Context: The term "cat squirrel" might appear in historical accounts, regional literature, or older naturalist writings to describe these squirrels.
  • The early settlers noted the abundance of the cat squirrel in the new world.

Variants and Related Words

• Eastern Gray Squirrel (n): The modern, more precise common name for .
• Eurasian Red Squirrel (n): The modern, more precise common name for .
• Gray Squirrel (n): A common shortened name for the Eastern Gray Squirrel.
• Red Squirrel (n): A common shortened name for the Eurasian Red Squirrel (in Europe/Asia) and also for a different species () in North America, which can cause confusion.

Synonyms

• Tree squirrel (n): A general term for squirrels of the genus that live in trees. This is a broader category that includes both species referred to as "cat squirrel."

Noun

1. common medium-large squirrel of eastern North America; now introduced into England
2. common reddish-brown squirrel of Europe and parts of Asia