Squirrels in Colorado: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Yes, squirrels are common across Colorado. You can find them in foothills, mountain forests, and even city parks. Start looking in places like Rocky Mountain National Park or your local green space. The key is watching for movement and listening for rustling leaves.
Yes, squirrels are common across Colorado. You can find them in foothills, mountain forests, and even city parks. Start looking in places like Rocky Mountain National Park or your local green space. The key is watching for movement and listening for rustling leaves.
Are Squirrels Common in Colorado?
Colorado hosts several squirrel species, including the Abert's squirrel (tassel-eared), rock squirrel, and the Colorado chipmunk. They inhabit pinyon-juniper woodlands, ponderosa pine forests, and suburban areas. Your best odds are in the Front Range foothills and along trails in state parks. Check out ourColorado wildlife guidefor more locations.
Where Are the Best Places to See Squirrels in Colorado?
Rocky Mountain National Park is a reliable spot for Abert's squirrels near ponderosa pines. Garden of the Gods offers rock squirrels sunning on sandstone. City parks like Washington Park in Denver have eastern fox squirrels. For a dedicated outing, head to Mueller State Park or Roxborough State Park. Forest openings and trail edges are prime spots.
When Is the Best Time of Day to Spot Squirrels?
Squirrels are most active early morning (sunrise to 9 AM) and late afternoon (4 PM to dusk). During midday heat they rest. In spring and fall, activity peaks as they gather food. Winter activity varies: some species remain active on mild days. Use these windows to maximize sightings. For more on squirrel behavior, see oursquirrel page.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What Field Signs Should I Watch For?
Look for drey nests (leaf balls high in trees), chewed pine cones (middens), and bark stripping on pines. Tracks show four front toes and five hind toes with a bounding pattern. Listen for alarm barks or scolding chatters. Ground squirrels leave burrow entrances about 2-3 inches wide. These clues help you find active areas even if the animal is hidden.
How Can I Tell Squirrel Species Apart?
Abert's squirrels have long ear tufts and a dark stripe on the back, found in ponderosa pine forests. Rock squirrels are larger, with a speckled gray back and a bushy tail carried flat. Eastern fox squirrels (urban) are orangish-brown. Colorado chipmunks are smaller with stripes on the face and back. Use a field guide to note size, color, and tail posture.
What Should I Bring for a Squirrel Watching Trip?
Binoculars (8x or 10x) help spot nests and distant animals. A camera with a zoom lens is useful. Wear quiet clothing that blends in. Comfortable, durable shirts like these can complete your outfit:
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Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels in Colorado
**Are squirrels in Colorado active in winter?** Some species remain active, especially on sunny days. They rely on cached food. Abert's squirrels are active year-round. **What should I do if I find a baby squirrel?** Leave it alone unless injured. Parents often retrieve young. Contact a wildlife rehabber if needed. **Can I feed squirrels?** It's not recommended; human food harms them. Enjoy watching from a distance. **Do squirrels in Colorado carry diseases?** Rare, but avoid direct contact. Keep your distance.
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