Squirrels in Michigan: where to look and what signs to watch for
Yes, squirrels are common across Michigan. Start your search in mixed hardwood forests, parks, and backyards. Focus on early morning or late afternoon. Look for Eastern gray, fox, red, and flying squirrels. Check for leaf nests (dreys) and chewed acorns.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Eastern Fox Squirrel · gpete CC BY
Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel · Thomas Koffel CC BY
Eastern Gray Squirrel · John G. Phillips CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- 21,161
- GBIF records
- May, April, June
- peak months
Yes, squirrels are in Michigan. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
9 types of squirrels recorded in Michigan
9 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Michigan 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
22,559 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in Michigan, most often in May, April, June.
When squirrel are recorded in Michigan
Yes, squirrels are common across Michigan. Start your search in mixed hardwood forests, parks, and backyards. Focus on early morning or late afternoon. Look for Eastern gray, fox, red, and flying squirrels. Check for leaf nests (dreys) and chewed acorns.
Are there squirrels in Michigan?
Absolutely. Michigan hosts four main species: Eastern gray, fox, red (or pine), and flying squirrels. Gray and fox squirrels are most common in the Lower Peninsula, while red and flying squirrels are found statewide, especially in conifer forests. Learn more about each on oursquirrel species page.
Where in Michigan are squirrels most likely to be found?
Your best odds are in oak-hickory and mixed hardwood forests, urban parks, and suburban backyards. In the Upper Peninsula, look in conifer and mixed stands. State parks like Yankee Springs or Waterloo Recreation Area are reliable spots. For more on Michigan's wildlife hubs, see theMichigan wildlife guide.
What time of day and season are squirrels most active?
Gray and fox squirrels are diurnal, with peak activity in early morning and late afternoon year-round. Red squirrels are also day-active but may be busier in fall and spring. Flying squirrels are nocturnal, so you'll need a flashlight after dark. Winter activity slows, but sunny days still produce movement.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
How can you identify squirrel species in Michigan?
Start with size and color: Eastern grays have gray fur with white bellies and bushy tails. Fox squirrels are larger with rusty-orange bellies and yellow-tipped hairs. Red squirrels are small, reddish with white eye rings. Flying squirrels are grayish and have a patagium (skin flap) between legs. Use a field guide for confirmation.
What signs of squirrels should a beginner look for?
Look for leaf nests (dreys) in tree forks, often basketball-sized. Chewed acorn caps, pine cone middens, and scratch marks on bark are good clues. Tracks show four toes on front feet and five on back, often in a bounding pattern. For tracking tips, visit oursquirrel tracking guide.
What is the best way to spot squirrels in Michigan?
Sit quietly near mature trees with nut-producing species like oaks, hickories, or walnuts. Listen for rustling leaves and the chuck of a squirrel barking. Bring binoculars to scan upper branches. Dawn and dusk offer the best light. You might also see deer or owls in the same areas; check ourdeer pagefor more.
How can you find the best squirrel spotting locations in Michigan?
Use this tool to explore nearby parks and forests known for squirrel activity. It will help you plan your next outing based on habitat and season.
How can you show your squirrel sightings with a wildlife t-shirt?
After a successful spotting session, wear your enthusiasm with comfort. Here are a few shirts that feature gray squirrels and classic designs:
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
A soft 100% cotton tee with a front-only gray squirrel print. Handmade and comfortable for casual wear.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A faded vintage-style design for anyone who appreciates these bushy-tailed rodents. Affordable and easy to wear.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt.
A playful squirrel graphic that works as a gift or personal wardrobe addition. Lightweight and fits well.Check Price and Availability
Browse more options on ourwildlife t-shirts page.
What are frequently asked questions about squirrels in Michigan?
**Do squirrels hibernate in Michigan?** No, they remain active year-round but reduce activity in harsh weather. They rely on cached food.
**What is the most common squirrel in Michigan?** The Eastern gray squirrel is the most widespread, followed by the fox squirrel in southern areas.
**Can I feed squirrels in Michigan parks?** It is generally discouraged to avoid dependency and health issues. Check local park rules.
**How do I keep squirrels out of my bird feeder?** Use squirrel-proof feeders with weight-activated cages or place feeders away from trees.
**Where can I see flying squirrels?** Look in older forests with cavities; go out at night with a red flashlight in the Upper Peninsula or northern Lower Peninsula.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in Michigan: May, April, June
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in Michigan
21,161 verified squirrel records have been logged in Michigan, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Michigan
- Isle Royale National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- North Country National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- River Raisin National Battlefield Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Keweenaw National Historical Park · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in Michigan?+
Absolutely. Michigan hosts four main species: Eastern gray, fox, red (or pine), and flying squirrels. Gray and fox squirrels are most common in the Lower Peninsula, while red and flying squirrels are found statewide, especially in conifer forests. Learn more about each on oursquirrel species page.
Where can you see squirrels in Michigan?+
Absolutely. Michigan hosts four main species: Eastern gray, fox, red (or pine), and flying squirrels. Gray and fox squirrels are most common in the Lower Peninsula, while red and flying squirrels are found statewide, especially in conifer forests. Learn more about each on oursquirrel species page.
When is the best time to see squirrels in Michigan?+
Absolutely. Michigan hosts four main species: Eastern gray, fox, red (or pine), and flying squirrels. Gray and fox squirrels are most common in the Lower Peninsula, while red and flying squirrels are found statewide, especially in conifer forests. Learn more about each on oursquirrel species page.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in Michigan
Common questions about squirrels