“Squirrel of Splendor” with White Tail and Markings Calls Berkley Home
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Oct. 27, 2023)
Berkley, MI – If you’re wandering around Downtown Berkley this weekend – perhaps enjoying the BOOkely Trick or Treat Stroll and Monster Mash Block Party – you may run into an unusual little friend. A beautiful gray squirrel seems like it may be in costume with it’s little white feet, white nose, and white tail.
But no, this isn’t some attempt at a skunky Halloween fashion, the squirrel has a genetic mutation that is uncommon, but not entirely unexpected. Mutations can be more common in cities and suburbs where populations are more confined by busy roads and breeding is more common among squirrels in the same family line.
This little critter is often seen running around near City Hall, bringing joy to city staff and visitors.
The special squirrel also inspired a poem by Berkley Downtown Development Authority Director Mike McGuinness, who named the creature Lil’ BOOkley in honor of the community’s signature Halloween event.
