Squirrels in Maine: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Yes, squirrels are common across Maine. Both gray squirrels and red squirrels live throughout the state, from coastal forests to inland woods. Start your search in mixed hardwood stands near oak or beech trees, especially during early morning or late afternoon when they are most active.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
American Red Squirrel 路 oksanaetal CC BY
American Red Squirrel 路 Public domain CC0
American Red Squirrel 路 oksanaetal CC BY
- 6
- species recorded
- 6,276
- GBIF records
- June, July, August
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
6 types of squirrels recorded in Maine
6 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Maine across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
- 1
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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
7,306 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in Maine, most often in June, July, August.
When squirrel are recorded in Maine
Yes, squirrels are common across Maine. Both gray squirrels and red squirrels live throughout the state, from coastal forests to inland woods. Start your search in mixed hardwood stands near oak or beech trees, especially during early morning or late afternoon when they are most active.
1. Where are squirrels most likely to be found in Maine?
Gray squirrels prefer mature hardwood forests with oaks, hickories, and beeches, especially in southern and central Maine. Red squirrels stick to coniferous and mixed woods, often around spruce, fir, and pine. Look for them in state parks like Baxter State Park or Acadia National Park, and even in suburban backyards with large trees. For more on Maine wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Mainepage.
2. What time of day and season is best for spotting squirrels?
Squirrels are most active during the first few hours after sunrise and again in the late afternoon before dusk. In Maine, spring and fall offer the best viewing because squirrels are busy gathering food and building nests. Summer mornings are good too, but midday heat often sends them to rest. Winter activity is reduced, but you may still see them on milder days.
3. What tracks and field signs can a beginner use to find squirrels?
Look for chewed nuts and seed cones scattered at the base of trees. Gray squirrel tracks show four long toes on the front feet and five on the back, often with a bounding pattern. Also watch for leaf nests (dreys) high in tree forks, or gnaw marks on bark. Hearing a sharp bark or chatter often means you are near a squirrel's territory. For more on squirrel identification, visit oursquirrel page.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Which squirrel species live in Maine and how do you tell them apart?
Two main species: the Eastern gray squirrel (gray fur, white belly, bushy tail) and the American red squirrel (smaller, reddish-brown, with a white eye ring). Gray squirrels are common in towns and parks, while red squirrels are more often in deep woods. A third, the Northern flying squirrel, is nocturnal and rarely seen but lives in older forests.
5. What do squirrels eat in Maine and how does that affect where you find them?
Gray squirrels favor acorns, beechnuts, and hickory nuts. Red squirrels eat pine seeds, spruce cones, and fungi. In autumn, both species cache food for winter. Searching near nut-bearing trees in early fall gives you the best odds of seeing squirrels busily gathering supplies. Bird feeders also attract them, so check yards with feeders.
6. How do squirrels behave in Maine's winter?
Squirrels do not hibernate. They stay active all winter, relying on stored food caches. On cold days, they may stay in their dens until midday. Look for tracks in the snow leading from tree bases to buried stash spots. Red squirrels are especially active under conifer cover, where they feed on cone seeds.
7. What gear helps with squirrel watching?
Binoculars and a field guide help, but you don't need much to spot squirrels. A quiet walk in the woods at the right time is enough. If you want to show off your interest, a comfortable t-shirt can make a good conversation starter. Check out ourt-shirtsfor wildlife-themed apparel.
8. Where can I find squirrel-themed clothing and gifts?
After a day of spotting, you might want to pick up a squirrel-themed shirt. Easy Street Markets offers several options that make great gifts for squirrel lovers.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
Show off a realistic gray squirrel design on a soft cotton tee. Great for casual wear or as a gift.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A classic vintage-style shirt for anyone who appreciates these bushy-tailed neighbors. Comfortable and affordable.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt. Squirrel Tshirt. Squirrel Lover Gift.
A fun, lighthearted shirt perfect for the squirrel fan in your life. Makes a great conversation piece.Check Price and Availability
9. Frequently Asked Questions about Squirrels in Maine
**Do squirrels live all over Maine?** Yes, both gray and red squirrels are found statewide, from the coast to the mountains. **What is the best time to see squirrels in Maine?** Early morning and late afternoon in spring and fall. **Are squirrels active in winter?** Yes, they do not hibernate; look for tracks in snow. **Can I attract squirrels to my yard?** Yes, by providing nut-producing trees or a bird feeder with sunflower seeds. **What should I do if I find a baby squirrel?** Leave it alone unless injured; mom usually returns.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in Maine: June, July, August
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in Maine
6,276 verified squirrel records have been logged in Maine, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Maine
- Acadia National Park 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Saint Croix Island International Historic Site 路 Wildlife Watching 路 Find hotels
- Frances Perkins National Monument 路 Find hotels
- Maine Acadian Culture 路 Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in Maine?+
Gray squirrels prefer mature hardwood forests with oaks, hickories, and beeches, especially in southern and central Maine. Red squirrels stick to coniferous and mixed woods, often around spruce, fir, and pine. Look for them in state parks like Baxter State Park or Acadia National Park, and even in suburban backyards with large trees. For more on Maine wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Mainepage.
Where can you see squirrels in Maine?+
Gray squirrels prefer mature hardwood forests with oaks, hickories, and beeches, especially in southern and central Maine. Red squirrels stick to coniferous and mixed woods, often around spruce, fir, and pine. Look for them in state parks like Baxter State Park or Acadia National Park, and even in suburban backyards with large trees. For more on Maine wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Mainepage.
When is the best time to see squirrels in Maine?+
Gray squirrels prefer mature hardwood forests with oaks, hickories, and beeches, especially in southern and central Maine. Red squirrels stick to coniferous and mixed woods, often around spruce, fir, and pine. Look for them in state parks like Baxter State Park or Acadia National Park, and even in suburban backyards with large trees. For more on Maine wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Mainepage.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in Maine