Squirrels in Wisconsin: Where to look and what signs to watch for
Yes, squirrels are a common and active part of Wisconsin's wildlife, found in almost every park, forest, and backyard across the state. These agile rodents are fascinating to watch and play an important role in the state's natural environment. This guide covers the best places to see squirrels in the Badger State.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 30, 2026.
Eastern Gray Squirrel · Daughter Dad CC BY
Eastern Gray Squirrel · Public domain CC0
Eastern Fox Squirrel · Daughter Dad CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- 15,729
- GBIF records
- May, June, April
- peak months
Yes, squirrels are in Wisconsin. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
10 types of squirrels recorded in Wisconsin
10 squirrel species have a verified observation record in Wisconsin 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 of the 10 shown is recorded as introduced to Wisconsin rather than native.
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
14,122 verified observations on iNaturalist of squirrel have been recorded in Wisconsin, most often in May, June, April.
When squirrel are recorded in Wisconsin
Yes, squirrels are a common and active part of Wisconsin's wildlife, found in almost every park, forest, and backyard across the state. These agile rodents are fascinating to watch and play an important role in the state's natural environment. This guide covers the best places to see squirrels in the Badger State.
1. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison is a hotspot for squirrel activity. The gardens' many large trees and diverse plantings provide ideal habitats for eastern gray squirrels. They are very accustomed to humans and can be seen foraging and playing throughout the year. It is a favorite spot for families to enjoy watching these active animals.
2. University of Wisconsin-Madison Campus
The UW-Madison campus is another excellent urban spot for squirrel watching. The campus's mature trees and numerous green spaces provide a safe and productive environment for squirrels. They are a familiar and entertaining sight for students and visitors, often seen collecting nuts and chasing each other across the lawns.
3. Devil's Lake State Park
Devil's Lake State Park near Baraboo offers a more natural forest setting for squirrel watching. Both eastern gray squirrels and the larger eastern fox squirrels can be found here. The park's diverse terrain and variety of nut-bearing trees provide excellent foraging grounds. Look for them along the many hiking trails and near the picnic areas.
4. Lakeshore State Park
Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee provides a unique urban island habitat for squirrels. While sightings are more limited than in larger forests, they are a familiar sight along the park's paths and in the small wooded areas. It is a beautiful location for observing squirrels against the backdrop of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.
5. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in northern Wisconsin offers vast tracts of protected forest that are ideal for observing squirrels in a truly wild setting. You can find several species here, including the elusive southern flying squirrel, which is active at night. The forest's diverse habitats support a healthy squirrel population.
How to plan a realistic Wisconsin squirrel trip
A good Wisconsin squirrel plan involves visiting wooded parks and gardens during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active. Bring some nuts or seeds if you want to attract them closer, but always be respectful of their wild nature. Use theWisconsin wildlife hubfor more location ideas.
What are the most common squirrels in Wisconsin?
The eastern gray squirrel is by far the most common species. You may also encounter the eastern fox squirrel, which is larger and has more reddish fur. Red squirrels are found in more northern coniferous forests, and southern flying squirrels are present but rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits. For more tips, see oursquirrel guide.
Squirrel-themed gifts for animal lovers
If you enjoy the antics of squirrels in your yard, you might enjoy these themed items for your home or as a gift.
Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder []() A practical and fun way to manage wildlife in your yard. Keeps the birds fed while challenging the clever squirrels. Check Price and Availability
When are squirrels most active in Wisconsin?
Squirrels in Wisconsin are active year-round and do not hibernate. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. In the fall, they are especially busy gathering and burying nuts for the winter. During extremely cold or snowy weather, they may spend more time in their nests to conserve energy.
What is the role of squirrels in Wisconsin's forests?
Squirrels are important seed dispersers. They bury thousands of acorns and other nuts each year, many of which they never recover. These forgotten caches allow new trees to sprout and grow, helping to maintain the health and diversity of Wisconsin's forests. They are a vital part of the natural cycle across the state.
How can I attract more squirrels to my Wisconsin yard?
Providing a consistent food source like a squirrel feeder with corn or sunflower seeds is the best way to attract them. Planting nut-bearing trees like oaks, hickories, and walnuts will also encourage them to stay. Providing a water source and safe nesting sites like large trees will also make your yard more attractive to local squirrels.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see squirrel in Wisconsin: May, June, April
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your squirrel sighting in Wisconsin
15,729 verified squirrel records have been logged in Wisconsin, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Wisconsin
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- North Country National Scenic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What squirrel species live in Wisconsin?+
The eastern gray squirrel is by far the most common species. You may also encounter the eastern fox squirrel, which is larger and has more reddish fur. Red squirrels are found in more northern coniferous forests, and southern flying squirrels are present but rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits. For more tips, see oursquirrel guide.
Where can you see squirrels in Wisconsin?+
The eastern gray squirrel is by far the most common species. You may also encounter the eastern fox squirrel, which is larger and has more reddish fur. Red squirrels are found in more northern coniferous forests, and southern flying squirrels are present but rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits. For more tips, see oursquirrel guide.
When is the best time to see squirrels in Wisconsin?+
The eastern gray squirrel is by far the most common species. You may also encounter the eastern fox squirrel, which is larger and has more reddish fur. Red squirrels are found in more northern coniferous forests, and southern flying squirrels are present but rarely seen due to their nocturnal habits. For more tips, see oursquirrel guide.
Keep exploring
More places to see squirrel
More wildlife in Wisconsin
Common questions about squirrels