Squirrels in Alaska: identification guide and where to start looking
Alaska hosts three main squirrel species: the Arctic ground squirrel, red squirrel, and northern flying squirrel. You’ll most likely see red squirrels in boreal forests and Arctic ground squirrels in tundra. Start by checking spruce forests in summer for the best odds.
Alaska hosts three main squirrel species: the Arctic ground squirrel, red squirrel, and northern flying squirrel. You’ll most likely see red squirrels in boreal forests and Arctic ground squirrels in tundra. Start by checking spruce forests in summer for the best odds.
What squirrel species live in Alaska?
Three squirrel species are found in Alaska: the Arctic ground squirrel (*Urocitellus parryii*), the red squirrel (*Tamiasciurus hudsonicus*), and the northern flying squirrel (*Glaucomys sabrinus*). The Arctic ground squirrel inhabits tundra and open areas, while red squirrels prefer coniferous forests. Northern flying squirrels are nocturnal and live in mature forests across the state.
In Alaska, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
How can you tell Arctic ground squirrels from red squirrels?
Arctic ground squirrels are larger, with a more grayish-brown coat and a shorter, less bushy tail. Red squirrels are smaller, reddish-brown, and have a conspicuous white eye ring. Red squirrels also have a distinctive chattering call, while Arctic ground squirrels emit a sharp whistle. Habitat is a clue: Arctic ground squirrels are in open tundra, red squirrels in forests.
Most misses happen when people arrive at the wrong hour or expect nonstop activity. Build around where in the state people usually notice them first, keep one backup area in mind, and use theanimal facts pageplustour planning ideasto compare what a realistic outing looks like in Alaska. If movement slows, stay longer at one promising spot, listen for calls or watch for edge movement, and reset around weather, light, water, or feeding changes instead of jumping to a totally new area too early.
Where in Alaska do people most often see squirrels?
Red squirrels are common in the boreal forests of interior and southcentral Alaska, especially around Fairbanks, Anchorage, and the Kenai Peninsula. Arctic ground squirrels are frequently seen along the Dalton Highway, Denali National Park, and other tundra areas. Flying squirrels are rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits but occur in forests from Southeast Alaska to the Interior. For more on squirrel habitats, visit ourAlaska wildlife hub.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
When is the best time of year to spot squirrels in Alaska?
Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the best visibility, as squirrels are active during daylight and spend time foraging. Winter can work for red squirrels, which remain active caching food, but Arctic ground squirrels hibernate from September to April. For reliable sightings, plan trips between June and August.
How do flying squirrels compare to other Alaskan squirrels?
Northern flying squirrels are smaller, with a flattened tail and a patagium (skin membrane) that allows gliding. They are strictly nocturnal and have large eyes for night vision. Unlike red and Arctic ground squirrels, they do not hibernate. Their presence is often indicated by shredded cones and feces at tree bases. For a deeper look at squirrel identification, check oursquirrel animal page.
What field marks should you look for when identifying Alaskan squirrels?
Focus on size, tail shape, and eye rings. Red squirrels: 12 inches long, reddish back, white belly, prominent white eye ring. Arctic ground squirrels: 15 inches, light brown with spots, short tail. Flying squirrels: 10 inches, gray-brown, large black eyes, no eye ring. Listen for calls: red squirrels chatter, Arctic ground squirrels whistle. Use binoculars for close views.
Where can you find squirrel-friendly gear and apparel?
After your squirrel spotting adventures, show your appreciation with wildlife-themed clothing. TheWild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrelfeatures a realistic squirrel design on a 100% cotton tee. For a retro look, theSquirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirtis a budget-friendly option. Browse more designs at ourt-shirts collection.
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What are common lookalikes for Alaska squirrels?
The least chipmunk is often mistaken for a squirrel but is smaller with stripes on its face and back. Martens and weasels have similar body shapes but lack bushy tails and are carnivorous. Hoary marmots are larger and live in rocky areas. Pay attention to tail bushiness and behavior to avoid confusion.
What long-tail questions are asked about Alaska squirrels?
Do squirrels hibernate in Alaska? Only Arctic ground squirrels hibernate deeply; red squirrels remain active but less so in winter. Are there any squirrel diseases to worry about? Tularemia and plague are rare but present; avoid handling squirrels. Can you feed squirrels in Alaska parks? It's discouraged as it can habituate them and spread disease.
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