A call has been made by scientists in Alberta for residents to be on the lookout for a rare rodent species. The elusive Franklin’s ground squirrel is the focus of an ongoing research initiative led by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in collaboration with Nature Alberta and her team at MacEwan University. This project was initiated due to observations by local naturalists noting a decline in the squirrel population, with concerns raised about the lack of active conservation efforts.
The primary goal of the project is to provide evidence of the decline in the Franklin’s ground squirrel population, which is currently categorized as “undetermined” by the Alberta government due to insufficient data. Haines aims to gather substantial data on the population trends of these squirrels to prompt a reclassification to an at-risk status. Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which adapt well to human-altered environments like pastures and golf courses, Franklin’s ground squirrels rely strictly on natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested areas.
Human activities such as land conversion for agriculture and urban development have been identified as significant factors contributing to the diminishing squirrel population. Previously widespread across central Alberta and into the southern boreal regions and foothills, these squirrels are now confined to a few remaining populations. Notable locations 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.
Unlike other ground squirrel species that live in large, visible colonies, Franklin’s ground squirrels exist naturally in small numbers and low densities, making them more vulnerable to local extinctions. Recognizing the importance of public involvement, Haines and her team, including students, conduct field research to capture and release squirrels for study purposes. They encourage the public to contribute historical and current observations of these squirrels through platforms like iNaturalist and the Nature Alberta website to aid in tracking their habitats and population distribution.
The research project has an ongoing nature with a shifting focus every few years. Currently, the team is concentrating on understanding the squirrel’s diet and habitat, with plans to address specific concerns regarding vulnerable populations in the future. Myrna Pearman from the Red Deer River Naturalists, who has developed a fondness for Franklin’s ground squirrels, advocates for increased attention and protection of the species as their numbers continue to decline. The distinctive features of the Franklin’s ground squirrel, such as its grey head and bushy tail, set it apart from other ground squirrel species in Alberta.
At present, none of the squirrel species in Alberta are classified as at-risk.