Connecticut Gray Squirrel Hunting
Regulations 2026
Eastern gray squirrels are the quintessential tree squirrel and most common small game animal in eastern forests. They display grizzled gray fur above, white below, with a long bushy tail edged in white. An all-black (melanistic) color phase is common in some populations — this is the same species. They cache thousands of nuts each fall, helping regenerate oak forests. Adults weigh 14-25 oz. The traditional .22 and small-bore shotgun pursuit is a gateway hunting experience for millions of hunters.
Connecticut Gray Squirrel Hunting — 2026 Regulation Quick Reference
Verified August 2026
Source: Connecticut DEEP (portal.ct.gov) · Last verified: August 2026
What You Need
License & Tag Requirements to Hunt Gray Squirrel in Connecticut
| License / Tag | Resident | Non-Resident | Required For |
|---|
Season Overview
Connecticut Gray Squirrel Season Calendar 2026
| Season | 2026 Dates | Legal Methods | Extra License Needed | Notes |
|---|
By Management Zone
Season Dates & Rules by Zone
Harvest Rules
Connecticut Gray Squirrel Bag Limits & Harvest Regulations
| Animal Type | Season Bag Limit | How to Get the Tag | Key Rules |
|---|
Legal Hunting Methods
Connecticut Gray Squirrel Hunting — Seasons by Method
After the Harvest
Gray Squirrel Registration — Connecticut's Check-In Requirements
Connecticut-Specific Rules
Connecticut Gray Squirrel Hunting Rules You Must Know
Where to Hunt
Best Gray Squirrel Hunting Areas in Connecticut
Know Your Quarry
Connecticut Gray Squirrel — Biology & Population Facts
Hunting Tactics
Connecticut Gray Squirrel Hunting Tactics — By Season
Questions & Answers