19 Types of Squirrels in Washington
Washington is home to four primary squirrel species, each with distinct identification marks and habitats. The Western Gray Squirrel, native and large with a pure white belly, prefers oak woodlands west of the Cascades. The Eastern Gray Squirrel, an introduced species now common in Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane, is smaller with a brownish wash. The Douglas Squirrel, a vocal rust-colored tree-dweller of conifer forests, and the Northern Flying Squirrel, a rare nocturnal glider, complete the roster. A fifth species, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but can occur. Most sightings happen near woodlands, parks, and forested neighborhoods, especially during early morning and fall caching season. Start with the Douglas Squirrel in mountain conifer forests or the Eastern Gray in urban parks if you're new to identifying Washington squirrels.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 26, 2026.
Verified species, source iNaturalist
19 types of squirrels recorded in Washington
19 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Washington across the squirrel family (Sciuridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
2 of the 19 shown are recorded as introduced to Washington rather than native, and 2 are endemic to Washington, found here and effectively nowhere else.
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Also recorded in Washington
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Least ChipmunkNeotamias minimus | Neotamias minimus | 159 |
| 14 | Northern Flying SquirrelGlaucomys sabrinus | Glaucomys sabrinus | 66 |
| 15 | Townsend's Ground SquirrelEndemicUrocitellus townsendii | Urocitellus townsendii | 53 |
| 16 | Western Gray SquirrelSciurus griseus | Sciurus griseus | 46 |
| 17 | Washington Ground SquirrelUrocitellus washingtoni | Urocitellus washingtoni | 27 |
| 18 | Red-tailed ChipmunkNeotamias ruficaudus | Neotamias ruficaudus | 25 |
| 19 | Common Golden-mantled Ground SquirrelCallospermophilus lateralis | Callospermophilus lateralis | 21 |
Plus 2 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.
Washington is home to four primary squirrel species, each with distinct identification marks and habitats. The Western Gray Squirrel, native and large with a pure white belly, prefers oak woodlands west of the Cascades. The Eastern Gray Squirrel, an introduced species now common in Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane, is smaller with a brownish wash. The Douglas Squirrel, a vocal rust-colored tree-dweller of conifer forests, and the Northern Flying Squirrel, a rare nocturnal glider, complete the roster. A fifth species, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but can occur. Most sightings happen near woodlands, parks, and forested neighborhoods, especially during early morning and fall caching season. Start with the Douglas Squirrel in mountain conifer forests or the Eastern Gray in urban parks if you're new to identifying Washington squirrels.
1. What types of squirrels are found in Washington?
Washington hosts four main species: the Western Gray Squirrel (native, large, gray with a bushy tail), the Eastern Gray Squirrel (introduced, common in cities), the Douglas Squirrel (small, rust-colored belly, calls loudly), and the Northern Flying Squirrel (nocturnal, glides between trees). A fifth, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but possible. For a full overview, check oursquirrel hub.
2. How can you tell apart the Western Gray and Eastern Gray Squirrels?
The Western Gray is larger (18-24 inches including tail) and has a pure white belly and feet. The Eastern Gray is smaller (16-20 inches) and often has a brownish or reddish wash on its back. Eastern Grays more commonly have black color morphs in urban areas like Seattle. Both share gray upperparts, but the Western Gray's tail is fluffier and more silver-tipped. They rarely overlap; Western Grays stick to oak woodlands west of the Cascades, while Eastern Grays dominate lowland cities.
3. What field marks separate the Douglas Squirrel from other small tree squirrels?
The Douglas Squirrel is small (10-14 inches) with a rusty-red belly and a narrow, dark tail edged with white. It has a distinct white eye ring and a loud, scolding call. Unlike the Northern Flying Squirrel, it lacks a gliding membrane and is active by day. It can be confused with the Red Squirrel, but the Douglas has a grayer back and no reddish tail. You'll most likely see it in conifer forests, especially around Douglas fir or spruce.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Where in Washington are you most likely to see each species?
Start your search in the following areas: - **Eastern Gray Squirrel**: Urban parks in Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane. They are common on the University of Washington campus. - **Western Gray Squirrel**: Oak woodlands in Klickitat, Yakima, and Skamania counties. Look in the Klickitat Wildlife Area. - **Douglas Squirrel**: Coniferous forests from the Cascades west to the coast, such as Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier. - **Northern Flying Squirrel**: Mature forests with snags, mostly west of the Cascades. Best found by listening for their high-pitched squeaks at dusk. For detailed species accounts, visit ourWashington wildlife page.
5. When is the best time to spot squirrels in Washington?
Most tree squirrels are active year-round, but your best odds are during early morning and late afternoon. In fall (September to November), squirrels are busy caching food and are more visible. Winter is also good for Douglas Squirrels, as they remain active and their calls carry in the quiet air. Flying squirrels are easier to see in spring and summer when they forage at dusk. Avoid midday heat in summer, when they rest.
6. What common lookalikes could you confuse with Washington squirrels?
The Eastern Gray Squirrel and the Western Gray Squirrel are the trickiest pair. Focus on belly color: white on Western, often brownish on Eastern. The Douglas Squirrel and Red Squirrel look similar; the Douglas has a rusty belly and a narrower tail. Chipmunks are smaller and striped, but sometimes mistaken for baby squirrels. Ground squirrels, like the Columbian Ground Squirrel, have shorter tails and live in open meadows, not trees. For a deeper dive into lookalike separation, see oursquirrel identification guide.
7. Which squirrel species are native versus introduced to Washington?
The Western Gray Squirrel is the only native tree squirrel truly at home in Washington's oak woodlands. The Douglas Squirrel and Northern Flying Squirrel are also native and have occupied the state for millennia. The Eastern Gray Squirrel, by contrast, is an introduced species from eastern North America, brought into urban areas and now established in city parks and suburbs. In some parts of Klickitat County, control efforts target Eastern Grays to protect the threatened Western Gray population. Understanding which species belong here helps conservation and informs your field approach.
8. What is the population status of Washington's native squirrels?
The Western Gray Squirrel is threatened and listed as a state endangered species in Washington. Habitat loss in oak woodlands and competition from Eastern Grays have reduced its numbers. The Douglas Squirrel remains common and healthy in conifer forests. The Northern Flying Squirrel is stable but harder to observe due to its nocturnal nature and preference for mature old-growth forest. If you spot a Western Gray, report it to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, as sightings help track recovery efforts.
9. How do squirrel nests differ between species, and where should you look?
Western Gray and Eastern Gray Squirrels build large, ball-shaped leaf nests (called dreys) high in tree branches, typically 40-60 feet up. Douglas Squirrels use smaller, tighter nests and often line tree cavities. Northern Flying Squirrels nest in tree cavities and lined holes, often reusing old woodpecker nests. When scanning forests or parks, look up at branches in tall oaks (Western and Eastern Grays), spruce and fir tops (Douglas), and snag cavities (flying squirrels). Nests are easiest to spot in late fall and winter after leaf drop.
10. Are there any rare or surprising squirrel records in Washington?
Yes. While the Red Squirrel is rare in western Washington, scattered sightings occur in eastern portions of the state, particularly in mountainous regions. The Fox Squirrel (native to eastern and southern states) has occasionally been documented as an escape or release in urban areas but has not become established. Conversely, the Western Gray Squirrel's range has shrunk drastically, now confined to scattered oak pockets in the south Cascades and Klickitat area. Historical records show Western Grays were much more widespread a century ago, so any sighting today is noteworthy.
11. Ready to show your squirrel spotting pride? Check these wildlife tees
After a day of identifying squirrels, celebrate with a shirt that matches your finds. These designs capture the charm of Washington's tree climbers.
Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
A soft 100% cotton tee featuring a detailed gray squirrel illustration. Perfect for field trips or casual wear. The print is front-only and made to last.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A retro style tee for those who can't get enough of these bushy-tailed animals. Budget-friendly and comfy for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability
Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Funny Squirrel Shirt. Squirrels Shirt.
A playful option with a humorous squirrel design. Great for gifting or adding to your own collection.Check Price and Availability
Browse our full selection ofsquirrel t-shirtsto find your favorite.
12. FAQ: Are there invasive squirrels in Washington?
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is introduced and considered invasive in some areas, competing with the native Western Gray. Control efforts exist in parts of Klickitat County. Another common question: do flying squirrels actually fly? No, they glide using a membrane between their front and back legs, up to 150 feet. And yes, squirrels are active all year, so you can spot them in any season with the right timing.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What types of squirrels live in Washington?+
Washington hosts four main species: the Western Gray Squirrel (native, large, gray with a bushy tail), the Eastern Gray Squirrel (introduced, common in cities), the Douglas Squirrel (small, rust-colored belly, calls loudly), and the Northern Flying Squirrel (nocturnal, glides between trees). A fifth, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but possible. For a full overview, check oursquirrel hub.
How do you tell squirrels apart in Washington?+
Washington hosts four main species: the Western Gray Squirrel (native, large, gray with a bushy tail), the Eastern Gray Squirrel (introduced, common in cities), the Douglas Squirrel (small, rust-colored belly, calls loudly), and the Northern Flying Squirrel (nocturnal, glides between trees). A fifth, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but possible. For a full overview, check oursquirrel hub.
Which squirrel is most common in Washington?+
Washington hosts four main species: the Western Gray Squirrel (native, large, gray with a bushy tail), the Eastern Gray Squirrel (introduced, common in cities), the Douglas Squirrel (small, rust-colored belly, calls loudly), and the Northern Flying Squirrel (nocturnal, glides between trees). A fifth, the Red Squirrel, is rare in eastern Washington but possible. For a full overview, check oursquirrel hub.
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