Scientists in Alberta are seeking the public’s help in locating a rare rodent species. The Franklin’s ground squirrel, which is the focus of a research endeavor spearheaded by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in collaboration with Nature Alberta, is being studied due to concerns about its dwindling numbers. The project aims to gather evidence demonstrating the decline in the squirrel population, which is currently classified as “undetermined” by the Alberta government, indicating insufficient data for assessing its status.
Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which adapt well to human-altered landscapes like pastures and golf courses, Franklin’s ground squirrels rely on natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested areas. The conversion of these habitats for agriculture and urban development has been a significant factor contributing to the decline of the Franklin’s ground squirrel population.
While some populations of the Franklin’s ground squirrel remain robust, there are concerns about the potential loss of certain populations in the near future. The project calls for public participation in reporting historical and current observations of the squirrels through platforms like iNaturalist and the Nature Alberta website. These submissions aid researchers in mapping the past and present distribution of the species in the province.
Jess Haines and her team, including students, conduct fieldwork to study and monitor the Franklin’s ground squirrels, capturing them briefly for research purposes before releasing them. Ongoing efforts focus on understanding the squirrel’s diet and habitat, with a continuous need for observational data to support conservation initiatives. Myrna Pearman, a member of the Red Deer River Naturalists, has joined the research efforts, expressing a personal interest in protecting the species and highlighting the decline in their numbers.
The Franklin’s ground squirrel, distinguishable by its grey head and long bushy tail, is just one of 14 squirrel species found in Alberta, with none currently identified as at-risk. Public involvement in documenting and reporting sightings of the Franklin’s ground squirrel is crucial for monitoring and safeguarding the species for future generations.
