Early Morning: Prime Feeding Hours

Why It’s the Best Time

At first light, squirrels emerge from their nests hungry after a night’s rest. They spend the first couple of hours feeding heavily on acorns, hickory nuts, or leftover mast from the previous season. Morning hunts are productive because:

• The woods are quiet, so movement and sound are easier to detect.

• Squirrels are active and visible as they move through treetops and along branches.

• Cooler temperatures keep them comfortable and active longer.

Morning Strategy

• Get in early: Be settled in before sunrise, allowing the woods to calm before squirrels start moving.

• Listen first: You’ll often hear cutting (the sound of teeth on nuts) before you see them.

• Focus on mast trees: Oak, hickory, and beech trees are hot spots.

• Use still-hunting: Move slowly, pausing often to watch and listen for activity in the canopy.

Pro Tip: In calm morning air, a squirrel cutting nuts can be heard from 75 yards or more—let sound lead you before you move.

Midday: Slow but Strategic

What Happens

As the day warms, squirrels typically retreat to shaded trees or dens to rest. Activity drops sharply between late morning and mid-afternoon. However, dedicated hunters can still score by adapting their approach.

Midday Strategy

• Target shady hardwoods: Focus on thick canopies or creek bottoms where it’s cooler.

• Sit quietly near nests or den trees: Some squirrels stir periodically to stretch or relocate.

• Use patience: Midday is a great time for stationary hunting or quietly still-hunting short sections of woods.

Bonus: Midday hunts are perfect for scouting—mark food trees and travel routes for your next morning trip.

Late Afternoon: Second Feeding Window

Why It Works

As temperatures drop toward evening, squirrels become active again—feeding to prepare for nightfall. This window, roughly the last two hours of daylight, is often nearly as productive as early morning.

Afternoon Strategy

• Return to morning food sources: Squirrels often revisit the same trees or patches before dark.

• Watch the treetops and ground: In fall, squirrels forage heavily on the forest floor for fallen nuts.

• Set up for a sit: Position yourself downwind with good visibility of mast-bearing trees.

• Stay until dusk: Some of the day’s boldest squirrels appear in the final 20–30 minutes of light.

Pro Tip: On overcast or cool days, squirrel activity can remain strong right up until legal shooting light ends.

Seasonal Adjustments

Early Fall

• Mornings are cooler, and squirrels feed longer into mid-morning.

• Focus on high-canopy activity and freshly dropping acorns.

Mid to Late Fall

• As leaves thin out, squirrels spend more time on the ground.

• Afternoon hunts become increasingly productive as they feed before colder nights.

Winter

• Cold temperatures limit movement to short feeding periods, usually mid-morning and mid-afternoon when it’s warmest.

• Look for sunny slopes, sheltered hollows, or heavy timber for active squirrels.

Weather and Moon Phase Considerations

• Overcast days: Encourage longer feeding since squirrels feel less exposed.

• Windy conditions: Squirrels move less; switch to quieter, leeward areas.

• After rain: Excellent time to hunt—wet leaves quiet your steps, and squirrels feed heavily after storms.

• Full moon: Morning activity may shift later as squirrels feed during the night.

Best Overall Times (Quick Reference)

Final Thoughts

The best times to hunt squirrels are simple: early morning and late afternoon, when they’re actively feeding and moving. Midday hunts can still pay off for patient hunters who adjust to cover and temperature. By timing your hunts around these daily peaks—and adapting to weather and season—you’ll consistently find action in the woods.

For more proven small-game strategies and to connect with outfitters who offer guided squirrel and upland hunts, visit Find A Hunt—your trusted resource for booking hunts and improving your field success.