Squirrels in Wyoming: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking
Wyoming is home to several squirrel species, including the Wyoming ground squirrel, least chipmunk, and golden-mantled ground squirrel. The most common tree squirrel is the red squirrel. Start by checking pine forests in the mountains or sagebrush flats for ground squirrels.
Wyoming is home to several squirrel species, including the Wyoming ground squirrel, least chipmunk, and golden-mantled ground squirrel. The most common tree squirrel is the red squirrel. Start by checking pine forests in the mountains or sagebrush flats for ground squirrels.
What types of squirrels live in Wyoming?
Wyoming hosts four main squirrel groups: ground squirrels (e.g., Wyoming ground squirrel, thirteen-lined ground squirrel), tree squirrels (red squirrel, northern flying squirrel), chipmunks (least chipmunk, Uinta chipmunk), and marmots (yellow-bellied marmot). The Wyoming ground squirrel is the most widespread, while red squirrels dominate coniferous forests.
How can I identify the different squirrels in Wyoming?
Focus on size, tail shape, and markings. Ground squirrels are smaller with less bushy tails and often have stripes or spots. Tree squirrels have full, bushy tails and ear tufts in winter. Chipmunks are tiny with bold facial stripes. The Wyoming ground squirrel is brown with a short tail and faint mottling; the golden-mantled ground squirrel has a rusty neck and white stripes bordered by black.
Where in Wyoming are squirrels most often seen?
The best odds start in the state's mountain ranges: the Medicine Bow, Bighorn, and Absaroka forests hold red squirrels and golden-mantled ground squirrels. Sagebrush basins around Rock Springs and Rawlins are prime for Wyoming ground squirrels. Try campgrounds and picnic areas where squirrels are habituated to people. For more specific spots, check ourWyoming wildlife hub.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What is the best season for squirrel sightings in Wyoming?
Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the highest activity. Ground squirrels emerge from hibernation in April or May and are most visible during morning and late afternoon. Red squirrels are active year-round but easiest to spot in summer when they gather cones. Winter sightings require luck near bird feeders or log piles.
How do ground squirrels and tree squirrels differ in Wyoming?
Ground squirrels live in burrows, have shorter tails, and often hibernate. Tree squirrels build nests (dreys) in trees, keep bushy tails, and remain active all winter. In Wyoming, the only true tree squirrel is the red squirrel (and rarely the flying squirrel). If you see a squirrel on the ground with a tail less than half its body length, it's almost certainly a ground squirrel.
What are some common lookalikes for Wyoming squirrels?
Chipmunks are often mistaken for small ground squirrels but have more prominent facial stripes. The golden-mantled ground squirrel looks like a large chipmunk but lacks stripes on the face. Yellow-bellied marmots are much larger and prefer rocky slopes. For detailed separation tips, visit oursquirrel animal page.
Show your squirrel spotting pride with wildlife apparel
Once you've identified your first Wyoming ground squirrel or red squirrel, why not wear your experience? Easy Street Markets offers a range of squirrel-themed shirts perfect for field days.
### Wild Wings Wildlife T-Shirt Gray Squirrel Unisex Graphic Tee For Men & Women
High-quality 100% cotton tee with a detailed gray squirrel print. Great for casual outings or as a souvenir from your Wyoming trip.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Lover Vintage T-Shirt
A classic retro-style shirt for anyone who admires these bushy-tailed animals. Affordable and lightweight.Check Price and Availability
### Squirrel Shirt. Squirrel Gift. Squirrel Clothing. Funny Squirrel Shirt. #OS5686
A fun, humorous design that captures the personality of squirrels. Perfect for gifting or adding to your own collection.Check Price and Availability
Browse more squirrel-themed apparel on ourt-shirts page.
Frequently asked questions about squirrels in Wyoming
**Are there flying squirrels in Wyoming?** Yes, the northern flying squirrel lives in high-elevation conifer forests, but they are nocturnal and rarely seen.
**What is the most common squirrel in Wyoming?** The Wyoming ground squirrel (formerly called the Richardson's ground squirrel) is the most widespread and often seen in open grasslands.
**Do squirrels in Wyoming carry diseases?** Ground squirrels can carry fleas that transmit plague, so avoid handling them and keep pets away.
**Where can I find red squirrels in Wyoming?** Look in mature pine and spruce forests in the Bighorn, Medicine Bow, and Yellowstone areas.
**What do Wyoming squirrels eat?** Seeds, pine cones, berries, insects, and occasionally bird eggs. Ground squirrels also eat roots and grasses.
For a complete guide to Wyoming wildlife, visit ourWyoming wildlife hub.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.