Yes, squirrels inhabit the diverse landscapes of Alaska. Despite the state’s challenging climate, several distinct species have adapted to thrive across its varied ecosystems. These rodents demonstrate remarkable survival strategies in the Alaskan wilderness.
Types of Squirrels in Alaska
Alaska is home to three primary types of squirrels: ground squirrels, tree squirrels, and flying squirrels. The Arctic ground squirrel (Urocitellus parryii) is the sole ground squirrel species found in the state and is also the largest ground squirrel in North America. They have tawny brown fur with white flecks on their backs and a lighter underside.
The American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) represents the tree squirrel category in Alaska. These squirrels typically have a deep rust or brown color with a light-colored underside and are smaller than Arctic ground squirrels.
Northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) are known for their nocturnal habits and large black eyes. They possess a loose fold of skin, called a patagium, between their front and hind legs, which allows them to glide between trees. Their fur is typically light brown to cinnamon on top with grayish sides and a whitish belly.
Where Alaskan Squirrels Reside
Alaskan squirrel species occupy different ecological niches across the state’s diverse geography. Arctic ground squirrels are widespread, found across northern, eastern, and southwestern Alaska, from sea level to high mountain elevations. They prefer habitats with loose soils, such as tundra, meadows, riverbanks, and lakeshores, which are suitable for their extensive burrow systems. These burrows can be up to 20 meters long and are often located under obstructions like rocks or logs for concealment.
Red squirrels are found throughout most of forested Alaska, from the Brooks Range to Southeast Alaska. They inhabit various forest types, including coniferous, deciduous, and mixed forests, often near spruce trees. They establish nests in tree cavities or construct their own from twigs, leaves, and moss within dense tree foliage.
Northern flying squirrels also reside in forested areas across Alaska, particularly in coniferous and mixed coniferous forests. They frequently utilize tree cavities and “witches’ brooms” (clumps of abnormal branches) for denning, especially in older forests.
Life in the Alaskan Wild
Alaskan squirrels exhibit specialized adaptations to survive their challenging environment. Arctic ground squirrels are obligate hibernators, spending 7 to 8 months of the year in deep hibernation to cope with harsh winters. During this period, their body temperature can drop below freezing, a phenomenon known as supercooling, which is among the lowest recorded for mammals. Their diet is omnivorous, including vegetation like leaves, seeds, and flowers, as well as insects, eggs, and occasionally small vertebrates. Males store food in burrows to consume upon arousal from hibernation.
Red squirrels remain active throughout the winter, relying on extensive food caches. They collect large quantities of conifer cones, storing them in underground middens, which can be piles of cones and debris. These squirrels also cache mushrooms on tree branches, sometimes drying them for preservation. Their winter survival depends on successfully gathering and defending these food supplies.
Northern flying squirrels are nocturnal and do not hibernate; instead, they gather in communal dens in winter to conserve warmth. Their diet largely consists of fungi, especially truffles, lichens, nuts, and seeds, but they also consume tree sap, insects, and bird eggs. They play a role in seed and fungal spore dispersal within their forest habitats.