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

Where in Alaska are squirrels most common?

Arctic ground squirrels are widespread in northern and interior Alaska, especially in open tundra, rocky slopes, and riverbanks. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the southeast and south-central regions. For the best odds, explore Denali National Park, the Kenai Peninsula, and the boreal forests near Fairbanks. Check your localAlaska wildlife resourcesfor recent sightings.

What time of day are squirrels most active?

Squirrels in Alaska are diurnal, with peak activity during mid-morning (8-11 a.m.) and late afternoon (3-6 p.m.) in summer. In winter, activity shortens to a few hours around noon. Plan your walks during these windows for the best chance to observe their foraging and caching behavior.

How to identify squirrel tracks and signs?

Look for four-toed front tracks and five-toed hind prints in snow or mud. Arctic ground squirrel burrows are easy to spot: mounds of dirt with multiple entrances in open areas. Red squirrel middens (piles of cone scales) at the base of spruce trees are a sure sign. Listen for their alarm calls: a sharp, repetitive chirp often given from a log or rock.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

What do squirrels eat in Alaska?

Arctic ground squirrels eat grasses, berries, fungi, and insects. Red squirrels depend heavily on spruce and pine cones, along with mushrooms and bird eggs. In urban areas, they raid bird feeders. Watch near berry patches in late summer for feeding squirrels.

How do squirrels survive the winter?

Arctic ground squirrels hibernate for up to seven months in underground burrows. Their body temperature drops near freezing. Red squirrels stay active year-round, relying on food caches of cones and mushrooms. You might see red squirrels digging through snow for their stores on mild days.

Where to watch squirrels in urban and wild settings?

In Anchorage, parks like Kincaid Park and Far North Bicentennial Park host red and Arctic ground squirrels. Denali National Park offers reliable ground squirrel sightings along the park road. For a guaranteed show, visit feeders at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Use the interactive tool below to find specific spots.

Squirrel-themed apparel to wear on your outings

After a day of spotting, show your appreciation with a comfortable squirrel t-shirt. These designs are great for wildlife lovers and make for easy conversation starters.

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Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt

A classic retro-style shirt for anyone who loves watching squirrels. Simple and durable.Check Price and Availability

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Which squirrel species are unique to the Alaska tundra?

The **Arctic ground squirrel** is the star of the Alaska tundra. They are the only species that can survive the extreme cold by entering a deep hibernation where their core temperature drops below freezing. You will find them in open, rocky areas where they can spot predators like eagles and foxes from a distance. Their social behavior and complex burrow systems make them a highlight for any tundra visitor.

How can you tell the difference between a red squirrel and a ground squirrel?

Red squirrels are smaller and have a reddish-brown coat with a white belly. They are almost always found in trees, especially spruce and pine. Arctic ground squirrels are larger, have a mottled gray and tan coat, and are strictly ground-dwelling. If you see a squirrel sitting upright on a rock in an open field, it is a ground squirrel. If it is scolding you from a branch, it is a red squirrel.

Are squirrels active during the long Alaska winter?

Red squirrels remain active throughout the winter, relying on the massive piles of cones, called middens, that they cache during the fall. You might see them tunneling through the snow to reach their stores. Arctic ground squirrels, however, are completely inactive from late September until April, sleeping deep underground to conserve energy during the harshest months of the year.

Where are the best spots for squirrel photography in Denali?

The Eielson Visitor Center area and the Savage River loop are excellent for photographing Arctic ground squirrels. They are accustomed to humans in these areas and will often pose on rocks. For red squirrels, the Taiga Trail near the park entrance offers dense forest habitat. Always use a telephoto lens to maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding the animals to get a better shot.

Are squirrels a nuisance in Alaska?

Only in urban areas where they raid bird feeders or dig under foundations. Most conflicts are minor. In the wild, they are an essential part of the food chain, providing a primary food source for many of Alaska's apex predators, including lynx and golden eagles. Keeping your distance and not feeding them ensures they stay wild and healthy.