Scientists in Alberta are seeking help from residents in spotting a rare rodent. The Franklin’s ground squirrel, a species under research led by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in collaboration with Nature Alberta, is the focus of the study. Haines explained that the project began due to observations of a decline in the squirrel’s population, prompting the need for investigation.
The project’s main goal is to confirm the decline in the Franklin’s ground squirrel population, which is currently labeled as “undetermined” by the Alberta government due to insufficient data. Haines aims to gather enough evidence through the research to warrant a change in the squirrel’s status to at-risk. Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which thrive in human-altered environments, the Franklin’s ground squirrel strictly requires natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested areas.
Human activities like agricultural conversion and urban expansion have directly contributed to the decline of the Franklin’s ground squirrel population. Once widespread in central Alberta, the species is now limited to a few populations. Notably, locations where the squirrel 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 squirrels that live in large colonies, Franklin’s ground squirrels exist in low numbers and densities, making them more vulnerable to disappearing from an area. The ongoing project led by Haines involves fieldwork to study and release captured squirrels back into the wild. The public is encouraged to contribute historical and current observations of the squirrels through iNaturalist and the Nature Alberta website.
The project has a flexible timeline, with current focus on understanding the species’ diet and habitat. Myrna Pearman, a member of the Red Deer River Naturalists, expressed her fondness for the squirrels and emphasized the need for their protection. With efforts to gather more data and raise awareness, the hope is to safeguard the Franklin’s ground squirrel population in Alberta.