Scientists in Alberta are seeking help from the public to spot an uncommon rodent. Franklin’s ground squirrel, a species in decline, is under scrutiny in a research initiative guided by wildlife biologist Jess Haines and conducted in partnership with Nature Alberta. The project’s objective is to validate the dwindling population of Franklin’s ground squirrels, which currently holds an “undetermined” status by the Alberta government due to insufficient data.
Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which flourish in human-altered surroundings like pastures and golf courses, Franklin’s ground squirrels depend solely on natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested regions. Human activities converting these lands for agriculture and urban development have directly contributed to the decline of this once prevalent species.
Recognizable habitats where Franklin’s ground squirrels can still be found include Wabamun Lake Provincial Park, Pigeon Lake, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park, Rochon Sands Provincial Park, and Buffalo Lake. These squirrels are characterized by their solitary existence and low population density, making them susceptible to local extinctions.
Jess Haines and her team, accompanied by students, extensively search for Franklin’s ground squirrels for research purposes, capturing and releasing them back into the wild. The project encourages the public to submit historical and current squirrel observations through the iNaturalist platform. These submissions aid researchers in tracking the species’ historical and current distribution across the province.
The research project, focusing on the squirrel’s diet and habitat this year, emphasizes the importance of ongoing public participation and observation submissions. Myrna Pearman, a member of the Red Deer River Naturalists, has taken a keen interest in Franklin’s ground squirrels, noting their unique characteristics and declining numbers. She hopes that increased attention will lead to protective measures for the species by the provincial government.
In Alberta, there are 14 squirrel species, with Franklin’s ground squirrel standing out due to its distinctive grey head and long bushy tail. None of the squirrel species in Alberta are currently identified as at-risk.