Situated in Richland County in Southern Illinois is the small city of Olney which has just over 8,700 residents. The city was founded in 1841 and is best known for one thing: albino squirrels. These white squirrels with red (and sometimes blue) eyes are so famous that people come from all over to try and catch a glimpse.
The albino squirrels of Olney are actually gray squirrels whose white fur and red eyes are caused by a recessive gene. Back in the 1940s, Olney had 800 white squirrels, but over time, the numbers dropped below 100.
City of Olney, Illinois/Facebook
Every year in October, Olney hosts a squirrel count where all are invited to participate. Albie, the town mascot, attends the event and ears of corn are given out to residents to feed the squirrels. It is quite an event to attend!
City of Olney, Illinois/Facebook
Today, there are approximately 200 albino squirrels running around town. In Olney, there are laws enacted to protect the white squirrels, which may be part of the reason why the numbers have increased slightly over time.
City of Olney, Illinois/Facebook
The city of Olney is so proud to be home to these albino squirrels that the creatures are celebrated here as part of the community.
Corey Seeman/Flickr
Plenty of signage and gift shops around town won’t let visitors forget that this is “the home of the white squirrel.”
Corey Seeman/Flickr
The 55-acre Olney City Park is one of the best places to spot the white furry creatures, but try to get up early as they are most active around sunrise.
ILLINOISouth Tourism/Facebook Millers Grove is another place where you may find them along with neighborhoods with older trees and feeding stations.
Squirrel Appreciation Day is January 21 and October is Squirrel Awareness Month, and, yes, both are celebrated here. Olney may be an eccentric place but it sure is endearing!
Corey Seeman/Flickr
Have you visited Olney to see the white squirrels? Please let us know If you have and what your experience was like in the comments!
City of Olney, Illinois/Facebook
Corey Seeman/Flickr
ILLINOISouth Tourism/Facebook
Millers Grove is another place where you may find them along with neighborhoods with older trees and feeding stations.
While you’re in Olney, stop by Hovey’s Diner for a delicious meal. And if you would like to visit another eccentric Illinois town, head to Casey, home to some of the world’s largest objects.
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Address: Olney, IL 62450, USA
