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Current Status:

Because Delaware populations of the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel occur in protected areas, they are not immediately threatened by habitat modification. However, because the populations are so small, the Delmarva fox squirrel is subject to extirpation by natural population fluctuations or other threats, such as disease, predation, or poor mast production, which would constitute less serious threats for larger populations.

Achievements:

Delmarva fox squirrels have been translocated to two sites in Delaware: Assawoman State Wildlife Area (1984-1985) and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge (1986-1987). Nest box checks in the spring of 1992 revealed a female with a litter of three, as well as two juveniles, at Assawoman; two females with litters of three and four were observed at Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. More nest boxes will be placed at both locations.

Current Recovery Needs:

Although the two populations seem to be faring well, supplementation with additional squirrels may be necessary to ensure sufficient genetic diversity. Several additional suitable sites exist for future translocations in Delaware.

Section 6 Funding and Activities:

The Delaware Fish and Wildlife Department was provided $2,000 in both FY 1991 and FY 1992 for monitoring Delmarva fox squirrel populations.

Partnerships

Delaware Fish and Wildlife Department: This State agency has an ongoing monitoring program for the Delmarva fox squirrel.

Recovery Plan Status:

Original plan approved 11/6/79; revised 5/9/83.