Black Squirrels

It’s hard to go outside in Iowa without noticing a squirrel. And while squirrels come in different colors in Council Bluffs black squirrels are a common sight, though you might never see them in other cities/towns across Iowa. 

• Why might black squirrels live in some Iowa cities/towns, but not others?

• Why might squirrels thrive in Iowa?
• What do you think the advantage is for squirrels to be different colors?

Student could:

• Complete a Notice/Wonder Chart while watching the video.
• Label a map of Iowa indicating cities where black squirrels are prevalent and determine what patterns are present.
• Record observations of squirrels that live in their community, including sizes, colors and habitat? Remind students that scientists include pictures, labels, and numbers when recording in their notebooks.
• Create a claim supported with evidence about why black squirrels live in certain habitats and not others. 
• Share claims with small groups and debate as a class why black squirrels live in certain habitats and not others.
• Research other animals that might be unique to your community. Why do they survive well there?

• Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) | 7 Cool Things You Should Know About Squirrels: This website shares seven cool things you should know about squirrels.
• Nature | Squirrels Guide to Success: Squirrels can survive in a wide range of environments. This video dives into the secret to their survival.
• PBS LearningMedia | KET Image Bank: Mammals: This collection of images includes a variety of different types and colors of squirrels.