Squirrels in Iowa: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For

Iowa is home to several types of squirrels including the eastern gray squirrel, the fox squirrel, and the southern flying squirrel. While gray and fox squirrels are active during the day and easily spotted in parks and woodlands, the flying squirrel is strictly nocturnal and much harder to see. You might also encounter the red squirrel in the northern parts of the state, which is smaller and more aggressive than its larger cousins. Each species has unique traits that you can study on our squirrel identification page.

The best place to see squirrels in Iowa is any area with mature deciduous trees like oak, hickory, and walnut. State parks such as Ledges, Pikes Peak, and the Loess Hills provide ideal habitats with plenty of food and nesting sites. They are also very common in urban areas with older neighborhoods and city parks. For a list of specific viewing hotspots near you, check out our state wildlife hub.

Yes, squirrels are managed as furbearers and game animals by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. There is a regulated hunting season for gray and fox squirrels, typically running from early fall through late winter. However, they are protected from being captured or killed outside of these seasons without a permit. Southern flying squirrels are also protected and are not a huntable species in the state. Learn more about wildlife regulations on our Iowa wildlife page.

The best time of day to see squirrels is during the early morning hours just after sunrise and again in the late afternoon before dusk. This is when they are most active foraging for nuts and interacting with other squirrels. During the heat of the day, they often rest in their nests or on high branches to avoid the sun and predators. For more on their daily activity patterns, visit the squirrel facts page.

Squirrels in Iowa are most often found in deciduous forests with a mix of oaks and hickories. Look for them in state parks like Ledges and the Loess Hills. They also thrive in suburban neighborhoods with mature trees and bird feeders. In Iowa, sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where they are most likely. Use the state wildlife hub and the route guide to narrow your search area.