Our Story
What is the White Squirrel Institute
The White Squirrel Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and conservation of Brevard, North Carolina’s famous white squirrels. Through conservation efforts, public education, and community engagement, the institute works to ensure that Brevard’s unique white squirrel population continues to thrive for generations to come. The organization supports wildlife rehabilitation efforts and promotes awareness of the ecological importance of protecting local wildlife.
Pisgah Penny, former City Ambassador for town of Brevard, NC. She passed in 2024.
How the White Squirrel Institute was Started
The White Squirrel Institute was started by Robert Glesener in 1997. He was an Associate Professor of Biology, Emeritus, Brevard College. B.S., University of Maryland (Zoology); M.S. (Zoology) and Ph.D. (Biological Sciences), University of Michigan. In 1997, with the participation of Brevard College students, Robert began a long-term study of Brevard’s white squirrel population, which includes conducting the annual Fall Squirrel Count. Read more about the Institute
The History of Brevard’s White Squirrels
Brevard’s white squirrels have become an iconic symbol of the community. Their story dates back to the mid-20th century when a small number of white squirrels were introduced to the area. Over time, these unusual animals, known for their distinctive white fur and dark eyes established a stable population within the town.
Brevard’s squirrels are leucistic, (not albino) meaning they have white fur but retain normal pigmentation in their eyes. Today, Brevard is widely known as one of the few places in the United States where white squirrels can be regularly seen in the wild. They have become a beloved part of the town’s identity, attracting visitors and wildlife enthusiasts from around the country.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
The preservation and conservation of Brevard’s white squirrel population
and wildlife by supporting licensed wildlife rehabilitators in
their efforts to save injured white squirrels and wildlife in Transylvania County.
Our Vision
We envision communities where wildlife is valued, protected, and preserved for future generations. By using the white squirrel as a symbol of conservation and curiosity, we aim to advance environmental education, support wildlife rehabilitation, and promote responsible stewardship of our shared natural world.
Conservation and Wildlife Support
The White Squirrel Institute supports conservation efforts through raising awareness about safe wildlife practices, supporting rehabilitators who care for injured animals, and encouraging responsible stewardship of local green spaces.
Education plays an important role in conservation. By sharing information about white squirrels and other wildlife, the institute helps the community better understand how everyday actions, from protecting trees to driving carefully in squirrel-populated areas can make a difference.
Work with local organizations, wildlife experts, and volunteers, to help rescue, rehab and release Transylvania County White Squirrels and area wildlife.
Community Events and Engagement
The White Squirrel Institute also organizes and participates in events that celebrate Brevard’s famous squirrels while raising awareness about conservation. These events bring together residents, visitors, and wildlife supporters to learn more about the animals that have become a symbol of the community.
We continue to look for educational opportunities through community events, community fundraisers supporting wildlife rehabilitation, white squirrel sightings, citizen-science projects, and partnerships with local organizations
Through these activities, the institute helps strengthen the connection between Brevard’s people and its wildlife.
Report a White Squirrel Sighting
Have you seen a white squirrel? If you have please submit your sighting here.
Adopt a White Squirrel
Support our mission, please donate or adopt a White Squirrel (in name only).
Contact Us
Have an hurt or injured white squirrel or any other animal that needs help.
Call (828) 548-0491 or email us at whitesquirrelinstitute@gmail.com. If you don’t hear back from us within a couple of hours please reach out to the NC Wildlife website for finding a rehabber near you. nearest re