7 Types of Squirrels in Indiana
Yes, squirrels are a common and active part of Indiana's wildlife, found in almost every park, forest, and backyard. These agile rodents are fascinating to watch and play an important role in the state's natural environment. This guide covers the common kinds of squirrels you will encounter in the Hoosier State.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 7
- species recorded
- April, September, May
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
7 types of squirrels recorded in Indiana
7 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Indiana across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
11,127 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in Indiana, most often in April, September, May.
When squirrel are recorded in Indiana
Yes, squirrels are a common and active part of Indiana's wildlife, found in almost every park, forest, and backyard. These agile rodents are fascinating to watch and play an important role in the state's natural environment. This guide covers the common kinds of squirrels you will encounter in the Hoosier State.
What are the most common squirrel species in Indiana?
The eastern gray squirrel is the most widespread and frequently seen species throughout the state. The eastern fox squirrel is also common, especially in more open woodlands and suburban areas. Southern flying squirrels are also present but are rarely seen because they are strictly nocturnal.
Where are the best places to see squirrels in Indiana?
You can find squirrels in almost any wooded area in Indiana. State parks like Brown County and Eagle Creek offer excellent viewing opportunities. Urban parks in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne are also teeming with gray squirrels. For fox squirrels, check the edges of forests and more rural landscapes. Check ourIndiana wildlife guidefor more location ideas.
How can you identify different squirrel types in Indiana?
Size and color are the best clues. Gray squirrels are medium-sized with a mostly gray coat and a white belly. Fox squirrels are larger and have a more reddish-orange color, especially on their undersides and tails. Flying squirrels are small with large eyes and a specialized membrane for gliding. For more identification tips, see oursquirrel identification guide.
What is the role of squirrels in Indiana's forests?
Squirrels are important seed dispersers. They bury nuts like acorns and walnuts for the winter but often forget where they hid them, allowing new trees to sprout and grow. They also provide a food source for many predators, including hawks, owls, and foxes, making them a key part of the natural food web across the state.
Squirrel-themed gifts for animal lovers
If you enjoy the antics of squirrels in your yard, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Squirrel-Themed Ceramic Coffee Mug []() A fun and charming mug that is perfect for any squirrel fan. Great for enjoying your morning coffee while watching the squirrels in your yard. Check Price and Availability
When are squirrels most active in Indiana?
Squirrels in Indiana are active year-round, although they may spend more time in their nests during extremely cold or stormy weather. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. In the fall, they are especially busy gathering and storing food for the winter months ahead.
Are there flying squirrels in Indiana?
Yes, southern flying squirrels are found throughout Indiana. They are smaller than gray squirrels and have a specialized membrane that allows them to glide from tree to tree. Because they are nocturnal, they are rarely seen by humans unless they are disturbed from their nests in tree cavities.
What do Indiana squirrels eat?
Squirrels in Indiana have a varied diet that includes acorns, walnuts, berries, and fungi. They are also known to eat insects and occasionally bird eggs. In urban and suburban areas, they are opportunistic and will happily visit bird feeders or scavenge for food scraps left out by humans.
How can I attract squirrels to my Indiana yard?
Providing a consistent food source like a squirrel feeder with corn or nuts is the best way to attract them. Planting nut-bearing trees like oaks and hickories will also encourage them to visit. Providing a water source and safe nesting sites like large trees will also make your yard more attractive to local squirrels.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What types of squirrels live in Indiana?+
The eastern gray squirrel is the most widespread and frequently seen species throughout the state. The eastern fox squirrel is also common, especially in more open woodlands and suburban areas. Southern flying squirrels are also present but are rarely seen because they are strictly nocturnal.
How do you tell squirrels apart in Indiana?+
The eastern gray squirrel is the most widespread and frequently seen species throughout the state. The eastern fox squirrel is also common, especially in more open woodlands and suburban areas. Southern flying squirrels are also present but are rarely seen because they are strictly nocturnal.
Which squirrel is most common in Indiana?+
The eastern gray squirrel is the most widespread and frequently seen species throughout the state. The eastern fox squirrel is also common, especially in more open woodlands and suburban areas. Southern flying squirrels are also present but are rarely seen because they are strictly nocturnal.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel