Did you know that there are over 200,000 squirrels in Idaho? These energetic rodents are a ubiquitous part of the state’s diverse wildlife, found scurrying across lawns, leaping between trees, and even raiding backyard bird feeders. Squirrels in Idaho come in a variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors that make them fascinating to observe.
This article will dive into the details of the different squirrel species found in Idaho, their habitats, diets, and fun facts. Whether you love watching their acrobatic antics or find them a nuisance at your bird feeders, learning more about these squirrel behaviors can provide a new appreciation for the diversity of wildlife in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Idaho is home to a diverse population of over 200,000 squirrels
- Squirrels in Idaho come in a variety of species, each with unique characteristics
- Understanding squirrel habitats and behaviors can help foster appreciation for these energetic rodents
- Squirrels play an important ecological role in Idaho’s natural landscapes
- Protecting squirrel habitats and supporting native plant diversity is crucial
Squirrel Species Found in Idaho
Idaho is home to a diverse array of squirrel species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors. From the vibrant American Red Squirrel to the elusive Northern Flying Squirrel, these energetic rodents play a vital role in the state’s ecosystems.
American Red Squirrel
The American Red Squirrel is a widespread and easy to identify squirrel species found across Idaho. They have a distinct reddish color with a white belly, and are much smaller in size compared to gray and fox squirrels. American Red Squirrels are primarily found in coniferous forests, but can also adapt to live in deciduous forests, backyards, and urban areas. Their diet consists mainly of seeds from evergreen trees, but they will also eat berries, bird eggs, acorns, and even tap maple trees for the sweet sap. These squirrels are known for their aggressive and vocal personality, often chattering loudly to alert the forest to any intruders. They can be a challenge for bird enthusiasts, as they are small enough to fit through many bird feeders and will aggressively chase away other squirrel species to have the feeders to themselves.
Fox Squirrel
The Fox Squirrel is the largest tree squirrel found in Idaho, but they are not native to the state. These squirrels have been introduced to Idaho and many other western states, where they can outcompete native squirrel species. Fox Squirrels thrive in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, urban parks, and neighborhoods. They spend a lot of time foraging on the ground, but are also excellent climbers and jumpers, able to leap up to 15 feet to reach bird feeders. To prepare for winter, Fox Squirrels cache nuts and seeds in hidden locations. While their antics can be entertaining to watch, their introduction has put pressure on native squirrel populations.
Northern Flying Squirrel
The Northern Flying Squirrel is a unique and elusive mammal found in the coniferous forests of Idaho. Unlike other squirrels, these creatures are nocturnal and rarely seen, as they live high up in the treetops. Flying squirrels do not actually fly, but rather glide from tree to tree using a membrane of skin between their wrists and ankles. Their large eyes and soft, light brown fur help them navigate at night. While they still eat nuts and seeds like other squirrels, fungi and lichens make up the majority of their diet. Flying squirrels do not hibernate, but they will often den together in the winter to stay warm. Spotting one of these gliding squirrels is a rare treat for those lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
Squirrels in Idaho
Columbian Ground Squirrel
The Columbian Ground Squirrel is the largest ground squirrel species found in Idaho. They can be identified by their red-orange face and belly, tan back, and short, flat tail. These columbian ground squirrel live in colonies and dig extensive burrow systems, which they use to hibernate for 8 months of the year – one of the longest hibernation periods of any small mammal in the state. Columbian Ground Squirrels emerge from their burrows in the late spring and early summer to forage on grasses, flowers, seeds, and occasionally insects or small vertebrates. While their populations are healthy across ground squirrels in idaho, other ground squirrel species in the state face threats from habitat loss and exposure to poisons. Maintaining native plant diversity can help support these important members of Idaho’s ecosystem.
Conclusion
Squirrels are a ubiquitous and fascinating part of Idaho’s wildlife. From the aggressive and vocal American Red Squirrel to the elusive and gliding Northern Flying Squirrel, the state is home to a diverse array of squirrel species. Understanding their unique characteristics, behaviors, and ecological roles can help foster appreciation for these energetic rodents.
Whether you enjoy watching squirrels at your bird feeders or catching a rare glimpse of a flying squirrel in the treetops, these animals are an integral component of Idaho’s natural landscapes. By protecting their habitats and supporting native plant diversity, we can ensure that squirrels continue to thrive in the Gem State.
The diversity of squirrel species found in Idaho, each with their own distinct traits and adaptations, is a testament to the richness of the state’s wildlife. Embracing and preserving these captivating creatures is crucial for maintaining the balance and beauty of Idaho’s ecosystems.