Scientists are urging residents in Alberta to be on the lookout for a rare rodent species. The Franklin’s ground squirrel, a subject of a research initiative led by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in collaboration with Nature Alberta, is being closely monitored due to concerns about its declining population. According to Haines, the project was initiated after community naturalists observed the squirrel’s dwindling numbers and realized the lack of ongoing conservation efforts.
The research project aims to demonstrate the decline in Franklin’s ground squirrel population, which is currently categorized as “undetermined” by the Alberta government due to insufficient data. Haines emphasized that changing this status requires a comprehensive data collection effort. Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which thrive in human-altered landscapes, Franklin’s ground squirrels specifically depend on natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested areas.
Human activities such as agriculture and urban expansion have directly contributed to the decline of Franklin’s ground squirrels, once widespread across central Alberta and beyond. They are now limited to a few remaining populations. Locations where the species can still be found include Wabamun Lake Provincial Park, Pigeon Lake, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park, Rochon Sands Provincial Park, and Buffalo Lake.
Franklin’s ground squirrels differ from other ground squirrel species in their low numbers and densities, making them more vulnerable to local extinctions. To support the research project, the public is encouraged to report historical and current squirrel sightings through the iNaturalist platform. Researchers aim to track the species’ former and existing habitats in the province to better understand their distribution.
The project, led by Haines and her team, involves fieldwork to capture and release Franklin’s ground squirrels for data collection purposes. The public’s involvement in documenting observations is crucial for monitoring the species’ status. Myrna Pearman, a member of the Red Deer River Naturalists, expressed her fondness for the squirrels and highlighted the need for their protection.
The Franklin’s ground squirrel, distinguishable by its unique coloration and habitat, is one of five ground squirrel species among the 14 squirrel species in Alberta. As of now, no squirrel species in the province are considered at-risk. The research project remains ongoing, focusing on different aspects of the squirrel’s ecology every few years to gather comprehensive information for conservation efforts.