Fat Squirrel Week: “Meet some of the stoutest squirrels in the state”

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has declared this week “Fat Squirrel Week”, inviting Texans to celebrate some of the plumpest, most adorable squirrels from state parks across Texas.

Texans were encouraged to vote for their favorite by visiting the official Facebook pages of participating state parks. A like on a squirrel’s photo counted as a vote, and some squirrels racked up large numbers.

The matchups featured eight round contenders from eight state parks, including:

• Hill Country State Natural Area vs. Cleburne State Park
• Caprock Canyons State Park vs. Dinosaur Valley State Park
• Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway vs. Fort Parker State Park
• Lake Whitney State Park vs. Goose Island State Park

Contenders were Texas Tank, Biiiig Red, Chunkosaurus Rex, Phinn the Phat, Nutella, Twiggy Swift, Mama Maple and Loki.

One standout was Nutella, representing Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway. According to the park’s Facebook page:

“Nutella’s training regimen includes: raiding popcorn bowls, practicing her “innocent face” after every heist, and sneaking through campsites to “borrow” snacks in the name of science.”

And the winner, who captured hearts and likes through social media, is… Chunkosaurus, from Dinosaur Valley State Park.

Fat Squirrel Week may be over, but the photos, the fun, and the fuzzy faces live on. Follow Texas Parks and Wildlife to see more wildlife moments, and maybe plan a visit to meet some of these famous squirrels in person.