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The endangered Mount Graham red squirrel, found only in southeastern Arizona’s Pinaleño Mountains, has experienced a significant rise in numbers. Surveys conducted in 2024 show the population now stands at approximately 233 animals. This marks an increase of nearly 60 percent compared to last year’s count of 144 squirrels.
Steady Growth After Years of Decline
The Mount Graham red squirrel population faced severe challenges over the last decade, particularly following the 2017 Frye Fire, which caused the number to drop as low as 35.
Featured Article – Frye Firehttps://t.co/1ncuGsrRTd
The Frye Fire was a wildfire that burned 48,443 acres (19,604 ha) in Graham County, Arizona, United States, from June 7 to September 1, 2017. The fire was ignited by a lightning strike on Mount Graham, wit… pic.twitter.com/rHBHUh55PT— Wikipedia Feed (@WikipediaFeed) September 6, 2024
Conservation efforts over the past several years have helped stabilize and now improve the species’ outlook.
The following table highlights the population changes in recent years:
| Year | Estimated Population |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 109 |
| 2022 | 156 |
| 2023 | 144 |
| 2024 | 233 |
Factors Contributing to the Population Rise
Conservationists attribute the increase to several factors, including better habitat conditions, improved food availability, and effective preservation programs. Surveys discovered a greater number of active middens, which are storage areas where the squirrels hoard pine cones and seeds. Middens are essential for survival, especially during colder months.
Wildlife agencies, including the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, implemented strategies such as habitat restoration, tree seed planting, and the removal of invasive competitors like the Abert squirrel. Collaboration with the Phoenix Zoo and research institutions also played a significant role through captive-rearing programs and continuous monitoring. And even predators like Golden Eagle are not a threat to the population, at least for this year.
Squirrel-tacular News! The endangered Mount Graham red squirrel was surveyed at higher population numbers than originally anticipated. Read our news release for more information on this exciting recovery: https://t.co/GSSXYs5F0L. pic.twitter.com/vZJrAhdMjV
— Arizona Game & Fish (@azgfd) December 15, 2024
Ongoing Challenges
Despite this progress, the Mount Graham red squirrel continues to face threats:
- Wildfires: Fires remain a major concern, capable of wiping out large sections of critical habitat.
- Invasive Species: Competition from non-native Abert squirrels reduces food and territory availability.
- Drought: Dry conditions lead to poor pine cone crops, limiting food resources.
- Insect Infestations: Tree damage from insects diminishes viable nesting and food storage areas.
Outlook for the Species
The recent population growth is encouraging, but experts stress the need for continued conservation efforts. Long-term survival depends on addressing wildfire threats, ensuring food availability, and maintaining suitable habitat. Agencies will carry out habitat assessments, species monitoring, and research initiatives to secure the future of this unique red squirrel species.
