Olney, Illinois and the White Squirrels

The “White Squirrels of Olney” in southern Illinois are a population of albino Eastern gray squirrels that have become a local mascot for the community. A rare occurrence for this species, these unique squirrels, characterized by their white fur and pink eyes, are considered a tourist attraction and are protected by town ordinances, which grant them the right-of-way on public streets. The town's identity is strongly tied to its white squirrel population, which can be seen in the city's logo, statues, and local shops (Welcome to the city of Olney, IL). 

The white squirrel population in Olney reportedly began in 1902 when two men, William Yates Stroop and George W. Ridgely, found and captured separate albino gray squirrels, which they then displayed in a saloon.

The people of Olney are proud of their white squirrels and have taken measures to protect them. These protections include:

• Right-of-way: The squirrels have the right-of-way on all city streets, meaning drivers must stop for them.
• Leash laws: It is technically illegal to walk a dog or cat on a leash in Olney without it being within the owner's control to prevent harassment of the squirrels.
• No harassment: The town has passed laws that prohibit the harassment of the squirrels, and there is a steep fine for harming them.

You can often spot the squirrels in their natural habitat, especially during the early morning or at dusk when they are most active. Olney City Park and residential neighborhoods with mature trees are good places to look for them.

When you visit Olney, you can find white squirrel-themed items, including souvenirs at local shops like the White Squirrel Shop.

To be born white, a squirrel must inherit a rare recessive gene from both parents. Unfortunately, this unique trait also makes survival harder. Their white fur provides no camouflage, their pigment-lacking eyes struggle in bright sunlight, and they're easy targets for predators. The squirrels' biggest predator in Olney? House cats. Reports are there used to be over 800 white squirrels in Olney, but recent counts suggest more like 80 or so left.

There is a tradition for taking an annual Squirrel Count of the white squirrel population each October to track their numbers and the health of the population. This event brings together the community and volunteers from out of town to help monitor the squirrel population. A cherished tradition that draws volunteers from both in and out of town each October. On the first three Saturdays of the month squirrel counters are assigned to different parts of town and report their findings. After the counting season is finished, the town also hosts an annual squirrel corn giveaway, during which corn is given to participants for free to feed the squirrels. This is the best season if you want to see the white squirrels, since they're out and about stashing up nuts for the winter.

Beyond its beloved critters, Olney (Welcome to the city of Olney, IL) offers hiking trails, lakes for fishing and kayaking, and fun festivals year-round. Meanwhile, quirky gift shops around town sell white squirrel souvenirs.

The white squirrels of Olney can be found along U.S. Route 50, the 3,000-mile transcontinental highway running from Maryland to California. Known for its historic significance the route was established in 1926 as part of the original U.S. Highway System and traces parts of the historic Lincoln Highway and Pony Express routes, connecting twelve states and the District of Columbia.

Located in the 110th District, Olney is represented by State Representative Blaine Wilhour who hosts traveling office hours at the Onley Public Library, speaks to various civic groups, and the residents of Emerald Glen Assisted Living facilities. Rep. Wilhour is a regular guest speaker for the students of Full Armor Christian Academy where he talks about the Illinois legislature, state government, and the rights of citizens enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.