Squirrels in North Dakota: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For
Yes, squirrels are common in North Dakota. You'll find them in wooded areas, parks, and near towns. The most widespread species is the eastern gray squirrel, though fox squirrels also appear. Start by checking deciduous forests along river corridors like the Missouri River or in urban parks.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Black-tailed Prairie Dog · Patrick Jackson CC BY
Eastern Fox Squirrel · Public domain CC0
Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel · Esben Kjaer CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- 3,425
- GBIF records
- June, July, May
- peak months
Yes, squirrels are in North Dakota. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
10 types of squirrels recorded in North Dakota
10 squirrel species have a verified observation record in North Dakota 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
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
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
1,886 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in North Dakota, most often in June, July, May.
When squirrel are recorded in North Dakota
Yes, squirrels are common in North Dakota. You'll find them in wooded areas, parks, and near towns. The most widespread species is the eastern gray squirrel, though fox squirrels also appear. Start by checking deciduous forests along river corridors like the Missouri River or in urban parks.
1. Where are squirrels most likely found in North Dakota?
Squirrels in North Dakota are most often found in the eastern and central parts of the state where hardwood forests and river valleys provide food and shelter. Look for them in places like Turtle River State Park, the Sheyenne River Valley, and the wooded corridors along the Missouri River. They also thrive in city parks and residential areas with mature oak, hickory, and walnut trees.Check our North Dakota wildlife page for more state-specific tips.
2. What time of day are squirrels most active?
Squirrels are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, especially in spring and fall when they are busy foraging and caching food. In the heat of summer, they may rest during midday, while in winter they come out during the warmer part of the day. If you want to spot them, plan your walk for the first few hours after sunrise or before sunset.
3. How can you identify squirrel signs like tracks and nests?
Squirrel tracks show four long toes on the front feet and five on the back, and you often see bounding patterns in soft mud or snow. Look for chewed acorn caps and gnawed pine cones at the base of trees. Their leaf nests (dreyses) are easy to spot in winter as large, round clumps of leaves high in the branches. These signs confirm squirrel activity even if you don't see the animal.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. What are the common squirrel species in North Dakota?
The two main species are the eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and the fox squirrel (Sciurus niger). Gray squirrels have gray fur with white bellies, while fox squirrels are larger with reddish-brown fur. Both are found in similar habitats. You may also see the smaller red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) in coniferous forests. For more details on squirrel identification, check oursquirrel animal hub.
5. When is the best season to observe squirrels?
Fall is the prime season for spotting squirrels because they are actively gathering and storing acorns. Spring is also good as they emerge from winter dens and are more visible. In winter, they are less active but still out on warmer days. Summer can be slow during midday heat, but mornings remain productive. Avoid late winter when food is scarce and they stay hidden.
6. What are some tips for a successful squirrel spotting outing?
Move slowly and quietly through likely habitat, and stop frequently to scan the trees. Listen for the rustle of leaves or the sound of nuts falling. Bring binoculars to watch them without getting too close. Choose a location with a mix of nut-bearing trees and water nearby. Early morning in a well-treed city park is a great starting point.
7. Show your squirrel spotting pride with a T-shirt
After a day of spotting squirrels, you can celebrate with a shirt from our collection. For a classic look, theWild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrelis a reliable choice. If you want something more casual, theSquirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirtis a fun option. Both are great for long walks or casual wear. Browse our fullwildlife t-shirt selection.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
The design depicted is only printed on the front of the t-shirt. There is no design on the back of the t-shirt.This t-shirt is hand-made and unique, using high quality 100% cotton. This graphic print design is printed only on the front of tCheck Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt. Squirrel Tshirt. Squirrel Lover Gift. #OS5686
A strong match for this wildlife page and an easy next click after the guide.Check Price and Availability
8. Frequently Asked Questions about squirrels in North Dakota
**Do squirrels hibernate in North Dakota?** They do not truly hibernate but may sleep for days during cold spells, emerging on milder days. **Are squirrels considered pests in North Dakota?** They can be in attics or bird feeders, but most people enjoy watching them. **What is the best bait for squirrel watching?** Nuts in the shell, especially peanuts and acorns, can draw them close. For more on squirrel behavior, visit oursquirrel guide.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in North Dakota: June, July, May
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in North Dakota
3,425 verified squirrel records have been logged in North Dakota, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in North Dakota
- Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- North Country National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in North Dakota?+
Squirrels in North Dakota are most often found in the eastern and central parts of the state where hardwood forests and river valleys provide food and shelter. Look for them in places like Turtle River State Park, the Sheyenne River Valley, and the wooded corridors along the Missouri River. They also thrive in city parks and residential areas with mature oak, hickory, and walnut trees.Check our North Dakota wildlife page for more state-specific tips.
Where can you see squirrels in North Dakota?+
Squirrels in North Dakota are most often found in the eastern and central parts of the state where hardwood forests and river valleys provide food and shelter. Look for them in places like Turtle River State Park, the Sheyenne River Valley, and the wooded corridors along the Missouri River. They also thrive in city parks and residential areas with mature oak, hickory, and walnut trees.Check our North Dakota wildlife page for more state-specific tips.
When is the best time to see squirrels in North Dakota?+
Squirrels in North Dakota are most often found in the eastern and central parts of the state where hardwood forests and river valleys provide food and shelter. Look for them in places like Turtle River State Park, the Sheyenne River Valley, and the wooded corridors along the Missouri River. They also thrive in city parks and residential areas with mature oak, hickory, and walnut trees.Check our North Dakota wildlife page for more state-specific tips.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in North Dakota
Common questions about squirrels