Which of these three species is not a type of tree squirrel found in Texas?

The ground squirrel is the species that is not classified as a tree squirrel. While ground squirrels do exist in Texas, they are primarily terrestrial, meaning they live and forage on the ground rather than in trees. In contrast, tree squirrels, such as the fox squirrel, gray squirrel, and flying squirrel, are adapted to arboreal lifestyles, spending most of their time in trees.

Tree squirrels are characterized by their strong hind limbs, long bushy tails, and behaviors that include climbing and jumping between branches. These adaptations allow them to navigate the treetops effectively. In Texas, both the fox and gray squirrels are commonly seen in wooded areas, while flying squirrels are typically active at night and are known for their ability to glide between trees. The distinction lies in their habitat and lifestyle, which highlights that ground squirrels, although present in Texas, do not fit into the tree squirrel category.