Squirrels in Arizona: where to look and what signs to watch for

1. What squirrel species live in Arizona?

Arizona hosts a variety of squirrels, but the most commonly seen are the rock squirrel (Otospermophilus variegatus) and the Abert's squirrel (Sciurus aberti). Rock squirrels favor arid rocky slopes and canyons, while Abert's squirrels stick to ponderosa pine forests in the central and eastern parts of the state. Less common but still present are the Arizona gray squirrel in mountain canyons and the antelope squirrel in desert scrub.

2. Where is the best place to spot squirrels in Arizona?

Your best odds for seeing squirrels are in the Mogollon Rim area, the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson, and the Chiricahua Mountains. Rock squirrels are common in lower elevation parks like South Mountain Park in Phoenix. For Abert's squirrels, head to the pine forests around Flagstaff or the White Mountains. Check the wildlife in Arizona page for more detailed site lists.

3. When is the best time of day and season to see squirrels?

Squirrels are most active during the cooler parts of the day: early morning from sunrise to about 9 a.m., and again from late afternoon until dusk. In summer, they may be less active during midday heat. Spring and fall offer the best overall viewing because temperatures are moderate and food sources are abundant. During winter, squirrels in high elevation areas may be less active or briefly dormant.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

4. How can I identify a squirrel by its tracks and signs?

Squirrel tracks show four toes on the front feet and five on the hind feet, with a distinctive bounding pattern: two small front prints followed by two larger hind prints. In dust or soft soil, you may also see tail drag marks. Other signs include stripped pine cones (Abert's squirrels leave a characteristic core), and middens piles of cone scales under trees. Rock squirrel burrows are often near rock piles or under boulders.

5. What do Arizona squirrels eat and where do they live?

Diet varies by species. Rock squirrels eat seeds, fruits, insects, and even small vertebrates. Abert's squirrels feed mainly on ponderosa pine seeds, buds, and fungi. Arizona gray squirrels prefer acorns and pine nuts. Rock squirrels den in rock crevices or burrows; tree squirrels use leaf nests or tree cavities. Look for feeding sign near oak trees, pines, and junipers.