Squirrels

From: Hunting & Trapping in Virginia (2005 Edition) page 50.

During any year, squirrels are perhaps our most abundant and underutilized game species. Results of a roadside population survey conducted by the Department show that squirrel populations have nearly tripled since the survey began in 1988. Despite abundant populations, squirrel hunting has declined substantially. In 1969, 65% of licensed hunters reported hunting squirrels. In 2001 the percentage was reduced to 33%. The main reason for the reduction in squirrel hunting is probably the rise in popularity of hunting other game species, such as deer and turkey.

Although the number of squirrel hunters has declined, squirrel hunting is still a very popular sport. Squirrel hunting is less popular than deer hunting, but it is tied with turkey hunting and is more popular than the hunting of any other game species.

Squirrel hunting is a great way to introduce youngsters to hunting. Our Department is greatly concerned about the decline in the number of hunters who pursue any game species in Virginia. This should be a concern to all sportsmen. Squirrels will likely be abundant this season offering you a great opportu­nity to take a youngster squirrel hunting and help to ensure that hunting will continue to be an important tradition in the Commonwealth.