If You See This Mammal In Wisconsin, Notify The DNR Immediately
The Wisconsin Natural Heritage Inventory has a working list that is made up of species known or suspected to be rare in the state, along with natural communities and geological features native to Wisconsin.
This working list includes species legally designated as "endangered" or "threatened," as well as species in the advisory "special concern" category.
A species of special concern is not endangered or threatened but it's vulnerable to becoming endangered or threatened in the future. This could be due to a variety of reasons including low or declining numbers, limited distribution, unique or specific habitat requirements of the species, and more.
The Wisconsin DNR Asks For The Public's Help
On September 13, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reached out asking for the public's help to report any sightings of Franklin’s ground squirrels this fall.
The Franklin’s ground squirrel is found in northwest to southeast Wisconsin, but most recent reports are restricted to far northwestern counties (especially Douglas County) and central Wisconsin. The species is semi-colonial (sometimes living in groups of two or more) and prefers brushy and partly wooded areas, dense grassy, shrubby marshland, and prairie edges.
A Franklin’s ground squirrel looks like a grey squirrel with its gray head and tan, flecked body, however, this Wisconsin special species of concern is different in two key ways:
- They have a shorter, less bushy tail
- They have small ears
They are also true hibernators, only active above ground from April into the fall.
According to Rich Staffen, a DNR zoologist, reports on special concern species help them know of any population changes, which helps them make plans to offset declines.
Staffen notes that Franklin's ground squirrels are uncommon in Wisconsin and difficult to survey, so public reports are often the best way to gather important information. If you spot one in Wisconsin, please file a quick report using the button above.
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