In a bid to seek out a seldom-seen rodent, scientists are seeking assistance from Albertans. The elusive Franklin’s ground squirrel is the focal point of a research endeavor spearheaded by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in collaboration with Nature Alberta. The initiative was sparked by community naturalists who observed a decline in the squirrel population and recognized the lack of ongoing research efforts dedicated to it.
The project’s primary objective is to provide evidence of the dwindling population of Franklin’s ground squirrels. Presently, the status of these squirrels in Alberta is classified as “undetermined,” indicating insufficient data to assess their well-being. Jess Haines emphasizes the need to gather substantial data on population trends to support a reclassification of the squirrel as “at-risk.”
Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which flourish in human-altered landscapes like pastures and golf courses, Franklin’s ground squirrels heavily rely on natural habitats with thick vegetation and wooded areas. The conversion of these lands for agricultural and urban purposes has directly contributed to the decline of the once-prevalent squirrel population.
Known habitats where Franklin’s ground squirrels can still be sighted include Wabamun Lake Provincial Park, Pigeon Lake, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park, Rochon Sands Provincial Park, and Buffalo Lake. These creatures exist in small numbers and sparse clusters, making them more susceptible to local extinction due to their low density.
The research team led by Jess Haines, often accompanied by students, dedicates significant time to locating, briefly capturing, and releasing Franklin’s ground squirrels for study purposes. They encourage public participation by submitting historical and current squirrel sightings through the iNaturalist platform, facilitating a broader understanding of the species’ distribution across the province.
The project, which remains ongoing without a definitive end date, focuses on various aspects of the squirrel’s ecology and behavior. Myrna Pearman from the Red Deer River Naturalists expresses her newfound appreciation for these creatures, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and conservation measures to safeguard Franklin’s ground squirrels from further decline.
In Alberta, there are a total of 14 squirrel species, including five ground squirrel varieties. The Franklin’s ground squirrel is distinguishable by its distinct grey head and lengthy bushy tail, aside from its specialized habitat requirements. Presently, no squirrel species in Alberta are classified as at-risk, underscoring the importance of continued research and conservation efforts for these unique rodents.
