Researchers at McGill University have documented that eastern gray squirrels living in Montreal display coat colour differences that align with the neighbourhood they occupy. The study, released on 23 September 2026, notes that the animals' fur can range from the species' typical gray to a solid black, depending on local conditions.
The research team examined squirrels across several areas of the city and observed a clear pattern linking neighbourhood environments to fur pigmentation. While the report does not specify the precise environmental factors, it attributes the variation to conditions unique to each neighbourhood, suggesting that local habitat characteristics play a role in shaping the animals' appearance.
Eastern gray squirrels are a familiar presence throughout Montreal, commonly seen in parks, streets and residential districts. Their adaptability to urban settings makes them a useful indicator of how wildlife responds to subtle changes in the built environment. By highlighting the colour shift from gray to black, the study adds a new dimension to understanding how city habitats influence the physical traits of resident species.
The findings underscore the importance of neighbourhood-level ecological factors in determining wildlife characteristics, even within a single metropolitan area. As Montreal continues to evolve, the research provides a baseline for future observations of how urban microclimates and habitat variations may affect other urban-dwelling animals.