In Alberta, researchers are seeking help from the public to spot a rare rodent, the elusive Franklin’s ground squirrel. Led by wildlife biologist Jess Haines, the research project is a collaboration between Haines’ team at MacEwan University and conservation group Nature Alberta. The project was initiated after local naturalists observed a decline in the squirrel’s population, prompting the need for research.
The primary goal of the project is to demonstrate the decline in Franklin’s ground squirrel population, which is currently categorized as “undetermined” by the Alberta government due to insufficient data. Haines aims to gather enough data on population trends to potentially elevate the squirrel’s status to “at-risk.” Unlike Richardson’s ground squirrels, which thrive in human-altered landscapes, Franklin’s ground squirrels rely on natural habitats with dense vegetation and forested areas.
Human activities such as land conversion for agriculture and urban development have directly contributed to the decline of Franklin’s ground squirrels in Alberta. Once widespread in central Alberta and beyond, the squirrels are now limited to a few remaining populations. Notable 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 squirrel species that form large colonies, Franklin’s ground squirrels naturally exist in small numbers and low densities, making them more vulnerable to local extinctions. Haines and her team, often accompanied by students, conduct fieldwork to study and release the squirrels back into the wild for research purposes. They also encourage public participation by submitting historical and current sightings of Franklin’s ground squirrels through platforms like iNaturalist.
The ongoing project, which focuses on understanding the squirrel’s habitat and diet, relies on public contributions to track the species’ historical and current distribution in the province. The ultimate aim is to gather comprehensive data to support conservation efforts and potential government protection for the species. Myrna Pearman, an advocate for the squirrels, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about their declining numbers and the need for conservation measures.