Squirrels in Minnesota: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Yes, squirrels are found throughout Minnesota. The state is home to the eastern gray squirrel, fox squirrel, red squirrel, and northern flying squirrel. To start spotting, focus on mixed hardwood forests and suburban parks. Look for leaf nests (dreys) in deciduous trees.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Eastern Gray Squirrel 路 Marilynn Miller CC BY
Eastern Gray Squirrel 路 Thomas Boe CC BY
Southern Flying Squirrel 路 Brett Ortler CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- 17,374
- GBIF records
- May, April, June
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
11 types of squirrels recorded in Minnesota
11 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Minnesota 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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11
Plus 1 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.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
19,293 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in Minnesota, most often in May, April, June.
When squirrel are recorded in Minnesota
Yes, squirrels are found throughout Minnesota. The state is home to the eastern gray squirrel, fox squirrel, red squirrel, and northern flying squirrel. To start spotting, focus on mixed hardwood forests and suburban parks. Look for leaf nests (dreys) in deciduous trees.
Where Are Squirrels Most Likely Found in Minnesota?
Eastern gray and fox squirrels are common in southern and central Minnesota, especially in oak-hickory forests and urban areas. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the north. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and live in mature forests statewide. Start with city parks like those in the Twin Cities or state parks like William O'Brien. For more on Minnesota wildlife, check ourMinnesota wildlife page.
In Minnesota, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
What Time of Day Are Squirrels Most Active?
Squirrels are diurnal, most active in early morning and late afternoon. Red squirrels may be active at dawn. Flying squirrels are strictly nocturnal. For best odds, go out in the first two hours after sunrise or before sunset. For more on squirrel behavior, see oursquirrel guide.
How Can You Identify Squirrel Tracks and Signs?
Look for tracks with four toes on front feet and five on back. Squirrels leave distinctive bounding patterns. Also look for gnawed pine cones (middens) under trees, chewed bark, and leaf nests high in branches. Fox squirrels leave large, chunky chew marks. For more on squirrel identification, see oursquirrel guide.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What Types of Squirrels Live in Minnesota?
Four main species: eastern gray (most common), fox (larger, reddish), red (small, vocal), and northern flying (nocturnal, glides). Gray squirrels have gray bodies and white bellies; fox squirrels have rusty-orange bellies; red squirrels are rusty red with white eye rings.
Do Squirrels Live in Urban Areas?
Yes, gray and fox squirrels thrive in suburban and city parks. They adapt well to people. Look for them in trees along streets and in yards. They are often tame in public parks. For more Minnesota spotting locations, visit ourwildlife page.
Where Can You Find More Squirrel Spotting Tips?
Use the interactive widget below to find squirrel spotting resources in Minnesota.
What Squirrel Apparel Is Perfect for Wildlife Fans?
If you enjoy spotting squirrels, why not show your appreciation with a squirrel-themed shirt? Here are some options from Easy Street Markets:
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
Features a realistic gray squirrel graphic on high quality 100% cotton. Great for wearing on your next outing.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A classic vintage-style design for squirrel fans. Affordable and comfortable.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt.
A fun, casual tee that makes a great gift. Perfect for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability
For more wildlife apparel, browse ourt-shirts collection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels in Minnesota
Q: What is the most common squirrel in Minnesota? A: The eastern gray squirrel is the most common, found statewide.
Q: Do flying squirrels live in Minnesota? A: Yes, the northern flying squirrel is found in mature forests across the state, though it is nocturnal and rarely seen.
Q: Can I feed squirrels in my backyard? A: Yes, but avoid bread or processed foods. Offer unsalted nuts, seeds, or fresh vegetables.
Q: Are squirrels a pest in Minnesota? A: In urban areas, they may raid bird feeders or attic spaces. Use squirrel-proof feeders and seal entry points.
Q: When is the best season to see squirrels? A: Fall is prime time as they gather food. Spring is also active after winter. For more details, see oursquirrel guide.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in Minnesota: May, April, June
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in Minnesota
17,374 verified squirrel records have been logged in Minnesota, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Minnesota
- Grand Portage National Monument 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Mississippi National River & Recreation Area 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- North Country National Scenic Trail 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Pipestone National Monument 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Voyageurs National Park 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in Minnesota?+
Eastern gray and fox squirrels are common in southern and central Minnesota, especially in oak-hickory forests and urban areas. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the north. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and live in mature forests statewide. Start with city parks like those in the Twin Cities or state parks like William O'Brien. For more on Minnesota wildlife, check ourMinnesota wildlife page. In Minnesota, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see squirrels in Minnesota?+
Eastern gray and fox squirrels are common in southern and central Minnesota, especially in oak-hickory forests and urban areas. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the north. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and live in mature forests statewide. Start with city parks like those in the Twin Cities or state parks like William O'Brien. For more on Minnesota wildlife, check ourMinnesota wildlife page. In Minnesota, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see squirrels in Minnesota?+
Eastern gray and fox squirrels are common in southern and central Minnesota, especially in oak-hickory forests and urban areas. Red squirrels prefer coniferous forests in the north. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and live in mature forests statewide. Start with city parks like those in the Twin Cities or state parks like William O'Brien. For more on Minnesota wildlife, check ourMinnesota wildlife page. In Minnesota, squirrels sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where the animal is most likely in the state. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in Minnesota