Arizona's WildLife

Abert’s squirrel is a large tree squirrel native to Arizona’s ponderosa pine forests, easily recognized by its tufted ears, bushy tail, and grayish body. This specialist species is closely tied to ponderosa pines, relying on pine seeds, inner bark, and buds for food, and using the trees for nesting and shelter. Abert’s squirrels are highly active and agile, often seen leaping among branches or foraging along the forest canopy. They are diurnal and maintain individual territories, with vocalizations and tail movements used for communication. As a species closely associated with pine ecosystems, Abert’s squirrels play a key role in seed dispersal and contribute to the ecological health and diversity of Arizona’s high-elevation forests.