Squirrel Fest (arguably the best time of the year) is happening now, and the Natural History Museum of Utah needs your help to track fox squirrels across the state. This annual 9-day data collection extravaganza invites Utahns to spot squirrels, submit surveys, and contribute to scientific research.
How To Participate in Squirrel Fest 2025
Any submission to the Fox Squirrel Survey from now to Sunday, Dec. 14 counts toward Squirrel Fest data. The first 250 people to submit a survey during the Fest will receive a limited-edition sticker in the mail!
🔎 Submit your observations through a web browser or download the Survey123 mobile app and search “NHMU Fox Squirrel Survey.” Each survey covers one spot during one observation session, and you can submit as many as you’d like.
How To Identify Fox Squirrels
Fox squirrels stand out from Utah’s native squirrels: American red squirrels (smaller, reddish, less bushy tails) and rock squirrels (similar size but ground-dwelling with less bushy tails). Here’s what to look for:
- Size: 18-28 inches long including their tail
- Color: Gray and orange backs, with pale yellow to bright orange undersides
- Fox-like tail: Big, fluffy, bright orange
- Habits: Skilled climbers, often traveling along branches, fences, and power lines
Tips for Squirrel Sightings
- This is a low-stress sport: Watch for 5-15 minutes and look wherever you’re curious (yard, park, trail, neighborhood).
- But get those deets: Share what you see, what sounds you hear, what time of day it was, what the squirrels were doing (were they having a li’l squirrel tea party?) etc.
- Don’t see a squirrel? Report it: This helps the museum just as much as seeing one.
Why Squirrel Fest Matters
NHMU launched the very first Squirrel Fest in December 2020 to build consistent, long-term data about the Eastern Fox Squirrel’s expansion. December is an ideal month to observe these critters because they stay active all winter, and leafless trees make ‘em easier to spot. Thanks to thousands of community submissions, scientists are gaining clearer understanding on how this species is spreading and how its affecting our local ecosystems.
