Arctic Ground Squirrel

Urocitellus parryii

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Rodentia · Sciuridae

About

The Arctic ground squirrel is a species of ground squirrel in the squirrel family Sciuridae that is native to the Arctic and Subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, mainly in North America and Asia. For some people in Alaska, particularly around the Aleutian Islands, the rodents are known as "parka" squirrels, likely due to their pelts being used for the ruff on parkas and other cold-weather clothing.

Fun Fact

Arctic ground squirrels are the only mammals that allow their body temperature to drop below freezing during hibernation — their blood supercools to −3°C without forming ice crystals.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Tundra and alpine meadows

Diet

Omnivore

Lifespan

8-10 years

Threats

Climate Change
Grazing Pressure

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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