is peculiar to the southern fox squirrel alone of all members of the 

 family. 



In the homes and habits of these clever creatures are noted 

 differences equal to those in their appearance. In the north they 

 live in the hollows of trees, which they line with bark, soft grass or 

 moss, or build nests of dried leaves on a framework of branches, 

 leaving a small entrance on the side rather than on top that the 

 rain may not find its way in so easily. In the south, they contrive 

 graceful structures of the beautiful hanging Spanish moss whither 

 they like to scurry away with any treasure they may have secured. 

 This fact often furnishes the vigilant observer with a clue that he 

 is in their vicinity, as they, like most squirrels, are very fond of the 

 seeds of pine cones, and, in biting off the outer surface to reach 

 the seeds, drop the scales about the nesting-place. The sight of the 

 chips may betray them to friend and foe alike, for they are much 

 hunted for both their flesh and their fur ; the former is esteemed for 



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