Squirrels in Iowa: Species Guide & Gifts

Quick Answer: Iowa is home to four main squirrel species: the eastern gray squirrel, fox squirrel, red squirrel, and southern flying squirrel. The eastern gray and fox squirrels are most common. For squirrel lovers, we've gathered the best squirrel-themed apparel and gifts, from t-shirts to novelty items.

What squirrel species live in Iowa?

Iowa has four squirrel species. The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is the most widespread, often seen in parks and backyards. The fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) is larger with a rusty belly and prefers open woodlands. The red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is smaller and lives in coniferous forests. The southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) is nocturnal and glides between trees. Each species has unique behaviors and habitats.

Where can you find squirrels in Iowa?

Squirrels are common across Iowa. Eastern grays thrive in urban areas with mature trees, while fox squirrels favor forest edges and farm groves. Red squirrels stick to pine forests in northern Iowa. Flying squirrels are elusive but live in deciduous woods statewide. For the best chance to see them, visit state parks like Ledges or Maquoketa Caves. You can also spot them in your own backyard if you have oak or hickory trees.

What are the best squirrel gifts and apparel?

Whether you want a funny tee or a realistic design, these shirts celebrate Iowa's squirrels. We found options for every style and budget.

Product	Price	Description
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee	$17.99	Realistic gray squirrel print on front, 100% cotton, unisex
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt	$8.59	Retro style design, budget-friendly
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt.	$16.93	Fun text design, great for squirrel lovers
Squirrel and Laptop Graphic T-Shirt	$16.24	Cute squirrel with laptop, perfect for techies
Vintage Squirrel Graphic Tee	$13.72	Classic vintage look, soft cotton
Funny Squirrel T-Shirt	$10.62	Humorous saying, lightweight
Squirrel Moon Graphic T-Shirt	$12.00	Artistic moon and squirrel design
Squirrel T-Shirt	$26.95	Simple bold squirrel graphic, high quality
Squirrel TShirt Designs By ShirtZilla Types of Squirrels Shirt	$24.87	Educational print showing squirrel species, OEKO-TEX certified
Cute and Nutty Squirrel Bunny Ear Easter Squirrel with Bunny Ears Funny T-Shirt	$15.90	Easter themed with bunny ears, fun for kids and adults
Squirrel Costume Plush Accessory Gifts for Adults Squirrel Evolution T-Shirt	$19.99	Evolution design from ancient to modern squirrel
Miller Sye Best Squirrel Dad Ever Eastern Gray Squirrels T-Shirt	$19.99	Perfect for squirrel loving dads
Miller Sye Squirrel Whisperer Eastern Gray Squirrel T-Shirt	$19.99	Playful whisperer design
Funny Easter Shirts Easter Squirrel Bunny Basket Egg Hunting Spring T-Shirt	$20.99	Seasonal design for Easter fun
Animal in Your Womens gray squirrel V-Neck T-Shirt	$19.99	V-neck cut with pocket featuring gray squirrel

Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women

This shirt shows a lifelike gray squirrel on the front. It is made from 100% cotton for a soft feel. The design is hand printed and works well for men and women. A solid choice for anyone who loves Iowa's most common squirrel. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt

This budget friendly tee has a retro look that stands out. The simple design says "Squirrel Lover" in a vintage font. It is light and comfortable for everyday wear. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt. Squirrel Tshirt. Squirrel Lover Gift. #OS5686

This shirt features a playful text design that repeats the word squirrel in a fun pattern. It is a great conversation starter and makes an easy gift for any squirrel fan. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel and Laptop Graphic T-Shirt

A cute squirrel working on a laptop – perfect for tech workers or students. The graphic is colorful and printed on a soft cotton tee. It adds a touch of whimsy to any casual outfit. Check Price and Availability

Vintage Squirrel Graphic Tee

This tee has an old school squirrel illustration with a worn in look. The fabric is soft and the print holds up well after washes. A classic choice for those who like retro style. Check Price and Availability

Funny Squirrel T-Shirt

A humorous shirt with a witty saying that will make other squirrel lovers smile. The print is clear and the shirt is lightweight. Great for casual days or as a gag gift. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel Moon Graphic T-Shirt

This artistic design shows a squirrel silhouetted against a crescent moon. It has a dreamy, outdoor feel. The fabric is breathable and comfortable for warm weather. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel T-Shirt

A straightforward tee with a large, bold squirrel graphic. The shirt is made from thick cotton that holds its shape. It is a bit more expensive but the quality justifies the price. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel TShirt Designs By ShirtZilla Types of Squirrels Shirt Funny Squirrel Shirt Cute Squirrel T-Shirt OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100

This educational tee shows different squirrel species like eastern gray and fox. It is OEKO-TEX certified for safety. A great pick for teaching kids about Iowa's squirrels. Check Price and Availability

Cute and Nutty Squirrel Bunny Ear Easter Squirrel with Bunny Ears Funny Easter Kids Boys Girls Adult T-Shirt

An Easter themed shirt with a squirrel wearing bunny ears. The design is cute and playful. It comes in adult and kids sizes, so the whole family can match. Check Price and Availability

Squirrel Costume Plush Accessory Gifts for Adults Squirrel Evolution Fox Eastern Gray Japanese Squirrel T-Shirt

This shirt shows the evolution of squirrels from prehistoric to modern. It includes various squirrel types. The print is detailed and the shirt fits comfortably. Check Price and Availability

Miller Sye Best Squirrel Dad Ever - Eastern Gray Squirrels T-Shirt

A thoughtful gift for dads who love squirrels. The text "Best Squirrel Dad Ever" is paired with an eastern gray squirrel graphic. The shirt is soft and runs true to size. Check Price and Availability

Miller Sye Squirrel Whisperer - Eastern Gray Squirrel T-Shirt

This shirt says "Squirrel Whisperer" with a cute gray squirrel. It is a fun way to show your connection to these animals. The fabric is comfortable for all day wear. Check Price and Availability

Funny Easter Shirts Easter Squirrel - Bunny Basket Egg Hunting Spring T-Shirt

A seasonal shirt with a squirrel holding an Easter basket. The design is bright and festive. It is a great choice for spring gatherings or egg hunts. Check Price and Availability

Animal in Your Womens gray squirrel V-Neck T-Shirt

This v-neck tee features a small gray squirrel in a pocket design. It is tailored for women with a flattering fit. The cotton blend is soft and lightweight. Check Price and Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

Are squirrels protected in Iowa?

Squirrels are not federally protected, but Iowa allows hunting of eastern gray and fox squirrels during specific seasons. Red and flying squirrels are protected as nongame species. Always check local regulations before any interaction.

What is the most common squirrel in Iowa?

The eastern gray squirrel is the most common. It is found in cities and forests across the state. Fox squirrels come second, especially in rural areas with open woods.

What do Iowa squirrels eat?

Iowa squirrels eat nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi. They especially like acorns, hickory nuts, and walnuts. They also occasionally eat bird eggs or insects.

Can you keep a squirrel as a pet in Iowa?

It is illegal to keep native squirrels as pets in Iowa without a permit. Wild squirrels belong outdoors. If you find an injured squirrel, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.

For more on squirrel species, check out our squirrel species guide. If you want to explore other state wildlife, see our Iowa wildlife gifts. And for more squirrel themed products, browse our squirrel apparel collection.