White Squirrels of Olney episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 25, 2026 · 14 MIN

White Squirrels of Olney

from History Dispatches · host Matt and McKinley Breen

Over a hundred years ago, a pair of albino squirrels took up residence in the woods in Olney, Illinois. At its peak, it was said that more than 800 of the white squirrels were in the area. Today that number is much less, but the squirrels are now protected and pampered by the town’s residents. This is the story of the White Squirrels of Olney. Sponsor Go to factormeals.com/dispatchespod50off to get 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription is active. Sources https://www.enjoyillinois.com/plan-your-trip/travel-inspiration/white-squirrels-of-olney/ https://www.ci.olney.il.us/visitors/white_squirrels/ https://www.ffa.org/ffa-in-the-usa/where-are-the-white-squirrels/ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/can-a-small-towns-protections-for-albino-squirrels-inspire-other-cities-to-guard-wildlife-against-cats-180986007/ History Dispatches is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on History Dispatches? Email us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Feb 25, 2026

Embed this episode

NOW PLAYING

White Squirrels of Olney

0:00 14:03

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of History Dispatches?

This episode is 14 minutes long.

When was this History Dispatches episode published?

This episode was published on February 25, 2026.

Can I download this History Dispatches episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!