18 Types of Squirrels in Idaho
Squirrels do show up in Idaho, and the best first step is matching habitat, timing, and recent local conditions. Start with the state wildlife hub, compare likely cover and movement windows, use the animal facts page for field marks, and plan one realistic route before heading out.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 6, 2026.
Verified species, source iNaturalist
18 types of squirrels recorded in Idaho
18 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Idaho across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
2 of the 18 shown are recorded as introduced to Idaho rather than native, and 1 is endemic to Idaho, found here and effectively nowhere else.
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Also recorded in Idaho
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | White-tailed Antelope SquirrelAmmospermophilus leucurus | Ammospermophilus leucurus | 33 |
| 14 | Belding's Ground SquirrelNativeUrocitellus beldingi | Urocitellus beldingi | 30 |
| 15 | Wyoming Ground SquirrelUrocitellus elegans | Urocitellus elegans | 30 |
| 16 | Northern Flying SquirrelGlaucomys sabrinus | Glaucomys sabrinus | 25 |
| 17 | Red-tailed ChipmunkNeotamias ruficaudus | Neotamias ruficaudus | 19 |
| 18 | Cliff ChipmunkNativeNeotamias dorsalis | Neotamias dorsalis | 10 |
Plus 3 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Squirrels do show up in Idaho, and the best first step is matching habitat, timing, and recent local conditions. Start with the state wildlife hub, compare likely cover and movement windows, use the animal facts page for field marks, and plan one realistic route before heading out.
What types of squirrels live in Idaho?
Idaho has three main groups: tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and chipmunks. The American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is the most widespread tree squirrel. Common ground squirrels include the Columbian ground squirrel and Uinta ground squirrel. Least chipmunks are small and often mistaken for squirrels. In some urban areas like Boise, you may also spot the introduced Eastern gray squirrel.
See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
How can you tell tree squirrels from ground squirrels?
Look at the tail and behavior. Tree squirrels have long, bushy tails and are agile climbers. Ground squirrels have shorter, less fluffy tails and spend most of their time on the ground, often sitting upright near burrows. In Idaho, the American red squirrel is the primary tree squirrel. Ground squirrels like the Columbian ground squirrel are larger and live in colonies in open areas.
See ourSquirrels guidefor the next step.
Where in Idaho should you look for each squirrel species?
American red squirrels are most common in the northern panhandle and central mountains, especially around ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and spruce forests. Ground squirrels are abundant in the sagebrush steppe and grasslands of southern Idaho, such as the Snake River Plain. For introduced Eastern gray squirrels, check city parks in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, and Moscow.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What is the best season for squirrel sightings in Idaho?
Squirrels are active year-round, but the best window is late summer through early fall (August to October) when they are busy gathering food. Early morning and late afternoon provide the most activity. In winter, red squirrels remain active but may be harder to spot. Ground squirrels hibernate from late fall to early spring, so plan for warmer months.
What are the key identification markers for Idaho's squirrels?
American red squirrel: 12-13 inches total length, reddish-brown back, white belly, and a distinct white eye ring. Its tail is reddish with a blackish tip. Columbian ground squirrel: larger (14-18 inches), mottled brown with reddish tones on the back and sides, and a short, bushy tail. Least chipmunk: very small (8-9 inches), with five dark stripes on the back and two on the face.
How do Idaho's squirrels differ from lookalike species?
The American red squirrel is often confused with the Douglas squirrel, but the Douglas has an olive-brown back and lacks the white eye ring. Ground squirrels are mistaken for chipmunks, but chipmunks have facial stripes and a more slender body. The introduced Eastern gray squirrel is larger and has a gray back with a white belly. Use tail shape and ear tufts as additional clues.
Show your squirrel spotting pride with wildlife apparel
After a day of identifying squirrels, why not wear your interest on your sleeve? Here are a few squirrel-themed shirts from Easy Street Markets.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
This tee features a detailed gray squirrel graphic on the front, printed on 100% cotton. A solid choice for a field trip or casual wear.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A vintage-style shirt for those who appreciate squirrels. Simple, comfortable, and perfect for showing your interest.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt. Squirrel Tshirt. Squirrel Lover Gift. #OS5686
A fun, humorous squirrel design that makes a great gift for any squirrel fan.Check Price and Availability
See ourCompare wildlife shirtsfor the next step.
Frequently asked questions about squirrels in Idaho
**Are there flying squirrels in Idaho?** Yes, the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus) lives in Idaho's coniferous forests. It is nocturnal and rarely seen, but you might spot its gliding silhouette at dusk.
**What is the largest squirrel in Idaho?** The Columbian ground squirrel is among the largest, reaching up to 18 inches in length. The introduced Eastern gray squirrel can also be large, up to 16 inches.
**Do Idaho's squirrels hibernate?** Ground squirrels hibernate from October to March. Tree squirrels like the American red squirrel remain active all winter, relying on cached food.
**Can you feed squirrels in Idaho?** It is not recommended because it can make them dependent on humans and spread disease. Check local regulations if you plan to feed wildlife.
**How many species of squirrels are in Idaho?** At least eight species: American red squirrel, Abert's squirrel (rare), Northern flying squirrel, Eastern gray squirrel (introduced), Columbian ground squirrel, Uinta ground squirrel, least chipmunk, and yellow pine chipmunk.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What types of squirrels live in Idaho?+
Idaho has three main groups: tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and chipmunks. The American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is the most widespread tree squirrel. Common ground squirrels include the Columbian ground squirrel and Uinta ground squirrel. Least chipmunks are small and often mistaken for squirrels. In some urban areas like Boise, you may also spot the introduced Eastern gray squirrel. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
How do you tell squirrels apart in Idaho?+
Idaho has three main groups: tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and chipmunks. The American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is the most widespread tree squirrel. Common ground squirrels include the Columbian ground squirrel and Uinta ground squirrel. Least chipmunks are small and often mistaken for squirrels. In some urban areas like Boise, you may also spot the introduced Eastern gray squirrel. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
Which squirrel is most common in Idaho?+
Idaho has three main groups: tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and chipmunks. The American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is the most widespread tree squirrel. Common ground squirrels include the Columbian ground squirrel and Uinta ground squirrel. Least chipmunks are small and often mistaken for squirrels. In some urban areas like Boise, you may also spot the introduced Eastern gray squirrel. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
Keep exploring
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