Shannon Stirnweis (Arizona, New York, New Hampshire Oregon, B. 1931) "Gray Squirrel" Signed lower left. Original Oil painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day of Issue Maximum Card of the 22c Gray Squirrel issued on June 13, 1987. Friendly and inquisitive, the Gray Squirrel is more civilized than its smaller more northern relative the red squirrel. They can often be found everywhere from rural backyards to big city neighborhoods. Easily identified, its long cylindrical body and bushy tail are covered with soft gray hair. Gray Squirrels have keen eyesight and wide vision, thus they can distinguish vertical objects particularly well, and estimate distances between trees with great accuracy. Normally living in treetops, Gray Squirrels can be seen hanging from their powerful rear limbs while feeding. To supplement their herbivorous diet Gray Squirrels occasionally strip the bark from deciduous trees; this action also helps to wear down their constantly growing incisors. Bark stripping is also frequently part of nest building or cavity lining for Gray Squirrels. The pattern of social organization Gray Squirrels follow - large male ranges overlapping several smaller female ranges - is typical of many nonterritorial mammals. Image Size: 13.5 x 18.75 in. Overall Size: 17.5 x 22.25 in. Unframed. (B10603)