9 Types of Squirrels in Michigan: Complete Identification Guide (With Photos)

Michigan is home to nine different species of squirrels, making it one of the most squirrel-diverse states in the Midwest.

Whether you’re spotting a bushy-tailed acrobat raiding your bird feeder or catching a glimpse of a mysterious flying squirrel at dusk, you’ll discover fascinating varieties that call the Great Lakes State home.

From the common gray squirrel scampering through Detroit’s parks to the elusive northern flying squirrel gliding through Upper Peninsula forests, each species brings unique characteristics and behaviors.

This comprehensive guide reveals all types of squirrels in Michigan, helping you identify what’s living in your backyard, local park, or favorite hiking trail.

Quick Reference: Michigan Squirrel Categories

The squirrels in Michigan are divided into two groups: tree squirrels and ground squirrels.

Tree squirrels spend most of their time above ground, building nests in branches and tree cavities.

Ground squirrels prefer underground burrows and surface-level territories.

Tree Squirrels (5 species):

• Eastern Gray Squirrel
• Eastern Fox Squirrel
• American Red Squirrel
• Northern Flying Squirrel
• Southern Flying Squirrel

Ground Squirrels (4 species):

• Eastern Chipmunk
• Woodchuck (Groundhog)
• Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
• Franklin’s Ground Squirrel

1. Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

The Eastern Gray Squirrel stands as Michigan’s most recognizable tree squirrel, thriving in both urban neighborhoods and dense woodlands throughout the state.

Physical Characteristics

The gray squirrel has an overall silvery gray body, a generally white belly, and tail hairs that are white-tipped. Grays are eight to 10 inches long (minus the tail) and weigh up to one and a half pounds. Their bushy tails typically measure 7-10 inches, nearly matching their body length.

Key Identification Features:

• Silver-gray fur with white-tipped tail hairs
• White or cream-colored belly
• Large, dark eyes
• Prominent ears with slight tufts
• Total length: 16-20 inches including tail

Color Variations

Black squirrels are simply melanistic phases of the gray squirrels. The two commonly interbreed and litters may contain both color types. You might spot these striking black variants in the same areas as typical gray squirrels, particularly in urban areas like Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.

Habitat and Behavior

Eastern Gray Squirrels prefer mature hardwood forests but adapt remarkably well to city environments. They will either inhabit a den in a tree cavity or create a drey, which is a nest high on the tree branches constructed of twigs and leaves. These intelligent creatures can remember hundreds of food cache locations throughout their territory.

Behavioral Traits:

• Highly social with complex communication systems
• Active during daylight hours (diurnal)
• Excellent problem solvers, especially around bird feeders
• Can rotate their ankles 180 degrees for head-first tree descent

You’ll find them in Michigan’s state parks, college campuses, residential neighborhoods, and anywhere oak trees provide abundant acorns.

2. Eastern Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger)

The most recognizable species in Michigan is probably the eastern fox squirrel, which sports gray fur on its back and yellowish fur on its belly over a hefty body frame 8 to 10 inches long. These robust squirrels represent the largest tree squirrel species in North America.

Physical Characteristics

Fox squirrels command attention with their impressive size and distinctive coloration. They’re significantly bulkier than their gray cousins, with broader heads and more muscular builds.

Distinguishing Features:

• Gray to brownish back with rust or yellowish underside
• Large, fluffy tail with mixed brown and black hairs
• Prominent ears, often with orange-brown tufts
• Body length: 8-10 inches (20-25 inches total with tail)
• Weight: 1-2.5 pounds

Habitat Preferences

Fox squirrels thrive in open woodlands, agricultural areas, and suburban environments with scattered mature trees. They primarily eat acorns, hickory nuts and walnuts, and their tree nests can often be found in the trees that produce these preferred foods.

Prime Fox Squirrel Habitats:

• Oak-hickory forests
• Agricultural edges with woodlots
• Parks and golf courses
• Suburban areas with large shade trees

Fox squirrels are tolerant of human proximity, and even thrive in crowded urban and suburban environments, making them common backyard visitors throughout lower Michigan.

Seasonal Behavior

These adaptable squirrels remain active year-round, though cold snaps may keep them nestled in their dreys for several days. During autumn, you’ll observe intense caching behavior as they prepare for winter food shortages.

For detailed information about fox squirrel ecology, visit the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology.

3. American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)

The American Red Squirrel is widespread across Michigan and easy to identify when compared to other squirrel species. As the name suggests, they have a reddish color and white belly that makes them easy to distinguish. These feisty, territorial squirrels bring vibrant energy to Michigan’s coniferous forests.

Physical Characteristics

Red squirrels are notably smaller than both gray and fox squirrels, but what they lack in size, they make up for in attitude and energy.

Identification Features:

• Rusty red to brownish-red upper fur
• Bright white belly and chest
• Dark stripe along sides (more prominent in summer)
• Body length: 7-8 inches
• Total length: 11-14 inches with tail
• Weight: 7-8.8 ounces

Habitat and Territory

Red squirrels prefer coniferous and mixed forests where they establish and fiercely defend territories averaging 2-5 acres. Preferring old growth, closed canopy boreal or mixed hardwood-coniferous forests, the northern flying squirrel occupies interior dens – though this applies to both red squirrels and flying squirrels in similar habitats.

Territorial Behavior:

• Maintain and defend feeding territories year-round
• Create large cone caches called “middens”
• Extremely vocal with chattering calls and alarm sounds
• Will chase away larger squirrels from their territory

Diet and Foraging

Unlike other Michigan squirrels that primarily eat nuts, red squirrels specialize in conifer seeds, particularly pine, spruce, and fir cones. They also consume mushrooms, bird eggs, and tree sap.

You can learn more about red squirrel conservation efforts through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

4. Northern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus)

The Northern Flying Squirrel represents one of Michigan’s most secretive and fascinating mammals. These nocturnal gliders inhabit the state’s northern forests, remaining largely invisible to most residents.

Physical Characteristics

Preferring old growth, closed canopy boreal or mixed hardwood-coniferous forests, the northern flying squirrel occupies interior dens, often excavated by woodpeckers, or exterior nests (dreys) from 3 to 30 feet above ground.

Key Features:

• Silky, dense gray-brown fur
• Large, dark eyes adapted for night vision
• Gliding membrane (patagium) between front and rear legs
• Flat, broad tail used as rudder during glides
• Body length: 5-6 inches
• Total length: 10-12 inches
• Weight: 2-4 ounces

Gliding Abilities

Northern flying squirrels don’t actually fly but glide using their stretched skin membranes. They can glide distances of 150 feet or more, losing only 1 foot of elevation for every 3 feet of forward movement.

Habitat Requirements

These specialized squirrels require mature forests with specific characteristics:

Essential Habitat Elements:

• Dense canopy coverage (over 70%)
• Abundance of woodpecker holes for nesting
• Diverse tree species including conifers
• Minimal human disturbance

Typical territory size is about five acres per breeding pair, though territories may overlap during winter months when food becomes scarce.

Diet and Ecology

Northern flying squirrels have unique dietary preferences that include:

• Fungi and mushrooms (up to 60% of diet)
• Tree lichens and moss
• Seeds, nuts, and tree buds
• Occasionally bird eggs and insects

For research on flying squirrel populations, check resources from Michigan State University’s Natural Features Inventory.

5. Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans)

The southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans), also known commonly as the assapan, is a species of squirrel in the family Sciuridae. These charming nocturnal gliders are more common in Michigan than most people realize.

Physical Characteristics

Southern flying squirrels are slightly smaller than their northern relatives, with softer, silkier fur and proportionally larger eyes.

Distinguishing Features:

• Grayish-brown upper fur with white underside
• Very large, dark eyes
• Pink nose and ears
• Gliding membrane extends from wrist to ankle
• Body length: 4-5 inches
• Total length: 8-10 inches
• Weight: 1.5-2.5 ounces

Social Behavior

These squirrels are extremely social and are often observed foraging, gliding, and resting together in large groups. In winter, groups of up to 20 animals come together in one nest to conserve energy and stay warm. This communal behavior sets them apart from most other squirrel species.

Habitat and Distribution

According to the Department of Natural Resources southern flying squirrels are more common than we think. They prefer mature woodlands and parks, and they will visit bird feeders readily. You’re more likely to encounter them in southern and central Michigan’s deciduous forests.

Preferred Habitats:

• Mature deciduous and mixed forests
• Parks with large trees
• Suburban areas near wooded regions
• Areas with oak, hickory, and maple trees

Nocturnal Activity

Southern flying squirrels emerge 30 minutes after sunset and remain active throughout the night. Their diet includes:

• Nuts, especially acorns and hickory nuts
• Seeds and tree buds
• Fruits and berries
• Bird eggs and nestlings
• Insects and moth larvae

Learn more about flying squirrel research through Purdue University’s wildlife extension programs.

6. Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus)

The Eastern Chipmunk, while technically a ground squirrel relative rather than a true squirrel, belongs to the same Sciuridae family and deserves recognition in any comprehensive guide to Michigan’s squirrel-like mammals.

Physical Characteristics

Chipmunks are easily distinguished from tree squirrels by their distinctive striped patterns and smaller size.

Key Identification Features:

• Five dark stripes alternating with light stripes down the back
• Reddish-brown sides with gray-brown back
• White belly and chest
• Prominent cheek pouches for carrying food
• Body length: 5-6 inches
• Total length: 8-10 inches with tail
• Weight: 2-5 ounces

Behavioral Patterns

Eastern Chipmunks are primarily terrestrial, spending most of their time on or near the ground. They’re excellent climbers but prefer ground-level activities.

Unique Behaviors:

• Create extensive underground burrow systems
• True hibernators (unlike tree squirrels)
• Stuff cheek pouches with seeds and nuts
• Highly territorial around burrow entrances

Habitat Requirements

Chipmunks thrive in deciduous and mixed forests with:

• Dense understory vegetation
• Abundant fallen logs and rock piles
• Rich leaf litter for foraging
• Edge habitats between forest and open areas

For chipmunk ecology information, visit the Wildlife Habitat Council.

7. Woodchuck/Groundhog (Marmota monax)

Contrary to popular belief, when Groundhog Day comes in February, most woodchucks are still hibernating and do not come out to see their shadow! These largest members of Michigan’s squirrel family are true ground dwellers.

Physical Characteristics

Woodchucks are robust, heavily built rodents that dwarf all other Michigan squirrels in size.

Identification Features:

• Grizzled brown to gray fur
• Short, powerful legs with strong claws
• Small ears and eyes relative to body size
• Short, bushy tail (25% of total length)
• Body length: 16-20 inches
• Total length: 20-27 inches
• Weight: 5-10 pounds (up to 14 pounds before hibernation)

Habitat and Behavior

🏠 Burrow Construction: Woodchucks are master excavators, creating complex underground systems with multiple entrances, chambers, and escape routes. These burrows can extend 25-30 feet in length and reach depths of 5 feet.

🌱 Seasonal Activity Patterns:

• Spring: Emerge from hibernation, establish territories
• Summer: Peak foraging and burrow maintenance
• Fall: Intensive feeding to build fat reserves
• Winter: True hibernation for 3-6 months

Diet and Ecological Impact

Woodchucks are primarily herbivorous, consuming:

• Grasses and clover
• Garden vegetables (when available)
• Tree bark and twigs
• Wildflowers and weeds

While sometimes considered agricultural pests, woodchucks provide important ecological services including soil aeration and serving as prey for large predators.

8. Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus)

The Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel represents Michigan’s most distinctively marked ground squirrel, though it’s found primarily in the state’s western and northern regions.

Physical Characteristics

This species earns its name from the distinctive striping pattern that makes identification straightforward.

Key Features:

• Thirteen alternating dark and light stripes running lengthwise
• Dark stripes contain rows of light spots
• Golden-brown to gray-brown base color
• White belly
• Body length: 4-6 inches
• Total length: 6-12 inches
• Weight: 4-9 ounces

Habitat Preferences

🌾 Preferred Environments:

• Prairie grasslands and meadows
• Agricultural field edges
• Golf courses and cemeteries
• Airport grasslands
• Roadside rights-of-way

These ground squirrels require open areas with short vegetation and well-drained soils suitable for burrow construction.

Behavioral Ecology

Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are true hibernators, entering dormancy from October through March or April. During active months, they:

• Maintain territories of 0.5-2 acres
• Create shallow burrows 3-4 feet deep
• Feed primarily on seeds, insects, and green vegetation
• Remain vigilant against aerial predators

📊 Activity Schedule:

• Early morning: Peak foraging period
• Midday: Rest in burrows during heat
• Late afternoon: Secondary foraging period
• Evening: Return to burrows before sunset

For prairie ecosystem information, consult the Michigan Natural Features Inventory.

9. Franklin’s Ground Squirrel (Poliocitellus franklinii)

Franklin’s Ground Squirrel rounds out Michigan’s squirrel diversity as the state’s least common and most northern-ranging ground squirrel species.

Physical Characteristics

Franklin’s Ground Squirrels bridge the gap between typical ground squirrels and tree squirrels in both appearance and behavior.

Distinctive Features:

• Uniform gray to gray-brown fur (no stripes)
• Relatively long, bushy tail for a ground squirrel
• Prominent ears
• Stocky build with short legs
• Body length: 6-7 inches
• Total length: 12-16 inches
• Weight: 7-14 ounces

Habitat and Distribution

🗺️ Michigan Range: Franklin’s Ground Squirrels occur primarily in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and extreme northern Lower Peninsula. They inhabit:

• Prairie-forest transition zones
• Wetland edges and marshy areas
• Brushy grasslands
• Areas with scattered shrubs and trees

Unique Behavioral Traits

Unlike other ground squirrels, Franklin’s species demonstrates semi-arboreal tendencies:

• Climbs trees and shrubs regularly
• Builds nests both underground and above ground
• Shows more complex social behaviors
• Maintains larger home ranges (up to 5 acres)

🔄 Annual Cycle: These ground squirrels have one of the shortest active seasons among Michigan’s squirrels, remaining active only from May through August before entering extended hibernation.

Conservation Status

Franklin’s Ground Squirrels face population pressures from habitat loss, particularly the conversion of prairie and grassland habitats to agriculture. They’re considered a species of conservation concern in Michigan.

Seasonal Squirrel Activity Guide

Understanding when and where to observe different types of squirrels in Michigan enhances your wildlife viewing success.

Spring Activity (March-May)

🌸 Peak Species to Observe:

• Eastern Gray and Fox Squirrels: Building new nests, territorial displays
• Red Squirrels: Increased vocalization and territory defense
• Chipmunks: Emerging from hibernation, establishing territories
• Ground Squirrels: Woodchucks and thirteen-lined species emerge

Best Viewing Locations:

• State parks during early morning hours
• Urban parks and college campuses
• Forest edges and clearings

Summer Activity (June-August)

☀️ Family Observations: All species are raising young during summer months. You might observe:

• Parent squirrels teaching juveniles to forage
• Increased activity around nest sites
• Family groups moving between feeding areas

Optimal Viewing Times:

• Early morning (6-9 AM)
• Late afternoon (4-7 PM)
• Avoid midday heat when many species rest

Fall Activity (September-November)

🍂 Intense Caching Behavior: Fall represents the peak activity period for most Michigan squirrel species:

• Tree Squirrels: Frantically gathering and burying nuts
• Ground Squirrels: Building fat reserves before hibernation
• Flying Squirrels: Increased social gatherings

Prime Observation Opportunities:

• Oak and hickory forests during nut production
• Parks and neighborhoods with mature trees
• Early morning hours for best activity

Winter Activity (December-February)

❄️ Species-Specific Patterns:

• Active Species: Gray, fox, and red squirrels remain active
• Hibernating Species: Chipmunks, woodchucks, ground squirrels dormant
• Flying Squirrels: Peak activity periods due to reduced competition

Winter Viewing Tips:

• Focus on tree squirrels visiting bird feeders
• Look for tracks in fresh snow
• Dawn and dusk for flying squirrel activity

Identification Quick Reference

Size Comparison Chart

Key Identification Questions

🔍 Ask Yourself:

1. What time of day did you see it? (Diurnal vs. nocturnal species)
2. Where was it located? (Tree, ground, gliding between trees)
3. What size category? (Small, medium, large)
4. What coloration pattern? (Solid, striped, mixed colors)
5. What was the tail like? (Bushy, flat, striped)

Common Identification Mistakes

❌ Avoid These Errors:

• Assuming all black squirrels are a separate species (they’re melanistic gray squirrels)
• Confusing young fox squirrels with adult gray squirrels
• Missing flying squirrels due to nocturnal activity
• Overlooking ground squirrels that aren’t chipmunks

Conservation and Wildlife Management

Fox and gray squirrels are protected game species, with set seasons (the “black” squirrel is actually a gray squirrel that’s just darker). Red squirrels are unprotected and may be taken year-round with a valid Michigan hunting license. Flying squirrels are protected and do not have a hunting season.

Species Protection Status

🛡️ Protected Species:

• Northern and Southern Flying Squirrels (fully protected)
• Eastern Gray Squirrels (game species with seasons)
• Eastern Fox Squirrels (game species with seasons)

⚡ Management Species:

• Red Squirrels (unprotected, year-round hunting allowed)
• Ground squirrels and chipmunks (varies by species and location)

Habitat Conservation

🌳 Supporting Squirrel Populations:

• Preserve mature forest habitats
• Maintain oak and hickory trees for nut production
• Create wildlife corridors between forest patches
• Limit pesticide use in residential areas

Creating Squirrel-Friendly Spaces

Backyard Habitat Enhancement

🏡 Simple Improvements:

• Plant native nut-producing trees (oak, hickory, walnut)
• Provide fresh water sources
• Leave brush piles for cover
• Install appropriate nest boxes for flying squirrels

Feeding Considerations

✅ Safe Feeding Practices:

• Use squirrel-specific feeders
• Offer nuts, seeds, and corn
• Maintain clean feeding stations
• Avoid feeding near busy roads

❌ Items to Avoid:

• Chocolate, candy, or processed foods
• Salted nuts or seasoned items
• Moldy or spoiled food
• Direct hand feeding (encourages dependency)

Visit the National Wildlife Federation for comprehensive backyard habitat certification programs.

Conclusion

Michigan’s remarkable diversity of squirrel species reflects the state’s varied ecosystems, from urban environments to pristine wilderness areas. Understanding these nine different types of squirrels in Michigan enhances your appreciation for local wildlife while helping you become a more informed observer of nature’s fascinating adaptations.

Whether you’re watching a fox squirrel’s acrobatic bird feeder raid, listening for a red squirrel’s territorial chatter, or hoping to glimpse a flying squirrel’s midnight glide, each species contributes unique characteristics to Michigan’s rich wildlife tapestry. By learning to identify these remarkable rodents, you join a community of wildlife enthusiasts helping to monitor and protect these important ecosystem members for future generations to enjoy.