Squirreltail grass, also known as barley grass or foxtail, is a type of grass commonly found in the western united states. Despite its unusual name, there are several synonyms for squirreltail grass that describe its characteristics and habitat. For example, needle-and-thread grass, so-called because of its long, thread-like leaves, is a common synonym. Another synonym for squirreltail grass is wild barley, which refers to the grass's close resemblance to the cereal grain. Finally, fox grass or foxtail is also a popular synonym, derived from the grass's fluffy seed heads that resemble a fox's tail.