Black Squirrel (Sciurus Carolinensis) Known Locally as: Tree Rat! :-)

A fine capture Len, of the infamous Black Squirrel. I have personally not had the  pleasure of viewing these guys in person, you're right very rat like in appearance. But one of Gods' creatures I suppose, well composed image anyway. Take care Len.

Best,

Holger

Yah, same species.  This little one was kind enough to stop for a bit & turn his best side for a 2\3 view of his face.  Crazy little balls of energy when they get to playing.  Full time job keeping them away from the bird feeders though.  Thanks for your visit & observations.  Best, LM.

We have quite a few of these little critters in the neighborhood.  I'll likely never be short of subject material while they are around.  And, judging from the number of partially eaten bagels found in our outdoor flower pots,  they're ALWAYS around. :-) Modern DSLR & a bit of luck = many keepers.  Best viewed 'Larger'.  Thanks for your visit & comment.  Best, LM.

In the thumb nail it looked like a bear cub! Good capture!  I see you are enjoying your new digital camera.

Princeton N.J. is a locality where black squirrels are found.  Not as furry as this creature.

Your model stopped just for a second! Fine capture of that furry and busy creature - excellent details and appropriate dof.

Looks very much like squirrel but not in the face, just the body shapes! Rat!

Best regards, Len!

PDE

I don't know what are the damage  or benefit they bring, but I  like those animals ,blacks  or brown. They are so quick, and have a charm. When I was in  the States I have tried to photo them, but it was a failor... they were quicker than me..

You  were lucky , Len.. he has realy posed for you, I think that your charm! has attracted him/her.;-))

Good to have your visit.  I see where you could get the idea it was a bear cub from the thumbnail.  View 'Larger' for the highest impact.  Clearly a tree rat!  :-)  Best, LM.

I think they're found all over the north eastern states and Canada.  The tail on this one is not as bushy as some.  Guess it could be something to do with the harshness of the winter.  After last winter it's a wonder we have any squirrels at all.  But here's proof of their hardiness.  Always good to hear from you.  Best, LM.

My kit 55-200 was wide open so I focused on it's eye & recomposed.  (this time I remembered to maintain a half-press on the shutter release) :-)  I think he turned to make sure it was a Nikon I was using to shoot with & not a cannon.  Best, LM.

Though they contain a high element of "pest" I must admit the neighborhood would lack a bit of character without them.  Catch 22! Tree rats or not I think I'd miss them.  Best, LM.

If one is patient they can be coaxed to come to your hand & take a peanut or some other treat.  I don't do that.  Best they fear us a bit lest we be over run by them.  You surely don't want them in your attic.   Generally I find black squirrels hard to photograph.  A bit of overexposure is required to get any detail in their fur.  This one was a pleasant surprise as I don't recall any exposure compensation.  Perhaps it was the flat lighting in the small bushy area beside our house.  Anyway, luck is good!  Stay safe.  LM.