After the American Revolution, Americans moved north of the Ohio River. They discovered creatures known scientifically as sciurus carolinensis. The gray squirrels became their new enemy. The squirrels suddenly appeared by the millions and ate freshly planted seeds, as well as crops ready for harvest. In “squirrel movements” or “squirrel migrations,” the naturalists of the 18th and 19th centuries wondered why this was occurring. Theories ranged from depletion of food sources to insect infestations of their nests. The migrations made little sense to the farmers and soon a war between them and the squirrels began over ownership of the western United States
Instructor
Dr. Ahmad is a Curators’ Distinguished Teaching Professor Emerita of American history at the Missouri University of Science and Technology. She specializes in history of the American West, including animals on the overland trails and the expansion of the U.S.… read more