Scientists are urging residents of Alberta to be on the lookout for a rare rodent species. The elusive Franklin’s ground squirrel is the focus of a research initiative spearheaded by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in collaboration with Nature Alberta. This project was initiated after local naturalists observed a decline in the squirrel’s population and realized the lack of active research on it.
The primary objective of the project is to demonstrate the decline in Franklin’s ground squirrel population. Currently, the species is classified as “undetermined” by the Alberta government due to insufficient data on its status. Haines aims to gather substantial data on population trends to advocate for reclassifying the squirrel as at-risk.
Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which thrive in human-altered environments like pastures and golf courses, Franklin’s ground squirrels depend strictly on natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested areas. Human encroachment for agricultural and urban development has led to a direct decline in the once abundant squirrel species.
Historical sightings of Franklin’s ground squirrels have been reported in various locations such as Wabamun Lake Provincial Park, Pigeon Lake, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park, Rochon Sands Provincial Park, and Buffalo Lake. These squirrels, unlike other ground squirrel species, exist in low numbers and densities and are more susceptible to local extinction due to their limited distribution.
The research project led by Haines and her team, which includes students, involves fieldwork to capture and release Franklin’s ground squirrels for data collection. The public is encouraged to contribute observations of the squirrels through the iNaturalist platform, enabling researchers to track historical and current distribution patterns of the species in the province.
The project has an ongoing nature with evolving priorities every few years. Currently, the focus is on understanding the squirrel’s habitat and diet patterns. Myrna Pearman, a member of the Red Deer River Naturalists, has expressed her fondness for the species and has actively participated in fieldwork to photograph the squirrels, hoping to raise awareness for their protection.
With 14 squirrel species present in Alberta, including five ground squirrel species, Franklin’s ground squirrel stands out with its unique habitat requirements, grey head, and long bushy tail. At present, no squirrel species in Alberta are officially designated as at-risk.
