Scientists in Alberta are seeking assistance from the public in locating a rare rodent species. The elusive Franklin’s ground squirrel is the focal point of a research initiative led by wildlife biologist Jess Haines in conjunction with Nature Alberta. The project was initiated due to observations by local naturalists who noticed a decline in the squirrel’s population with no ongoing research efforts. The aim of the project is to provide evidence of the decline, as the current status of the Franklin’s ground squirrel in Alberta is categorized as “undetermined” due to insufficient data.
Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which are adaptable to human-altered environments, Franklin’s ground squirrels heavily rely on natural habitats with dense vegetation. The conversion of these habitats for agricultural and urban purposes has directly contributed to the decline of the species, restricting their populations to a few remaining areas in the region.
Jess Haines emphasizes that Franklin’s ground squirrels exist in low numbers and densities compared to other ground squirrel species, making them more vulnerable to local extinctions. The public is encouraged to assist in the research project by reporting historical and current sightings of the squirrels through platforms like iNaturalist and the Nature Alberta website.
The project, which involves fieldwork to monitor the squirrels, has no set end date but periodically shifts focus. Researchers aim to gather comprehensive data on the species across the province before addressing specific concerns in the future. Myrna Pearman, a member of Red Deer River Naturalists, has become involved in the project out of fondness for the squirrels and hopes for increased protection for the species in the province.
With no squirrel species currently listed as at-risk in Alberta, efforts to understand and conserve the Franklin’s ground squirrel population are crucial for its long-term survival.