A large ground squirrel that hibernates 7–8 months annually. Their body temperatures drop below freezing during hibernation — the most extreme hibernation temperatures of any mammal.

Also called: Sik-sik (Inupiaq)

Native status: Native to Alaska, Yukon, Northwest Territories, eastern Siberia

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 22–30 cm (8.7–11.8 in); tail 8–15 cm
Weight450–1,000 g (1.0–2.2 lb)
LifespanWild 2–8 years
OrderRodentia
FamilySciuridae

§ Encyclopedia

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.

Source: Wikipedia — Arctic ground squirrel Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium-large ground squirrel with grizzled tan-brown back, buff belly, and indistinct lighter spots on back. Short ears, short bushy tail.

Similar species. Other ground squirrel species (different ranges/markings). Marmots (much larger, different shape).

Voice. Sharp "sik-sik" alarm calls.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Grasses, sedges, forbs, berries, mushrooms, willow twigs; occasionally insects and small vertebrates.

Behavior. Hibernates 7–8 months — among the longest mammalian hibernations. Body temperature drops to -2.9°C (26.8°F) during hibernation — among the lowest body temperatures ever recorded in a mammal, achieved by "supercooling" without freezing. The Inupiaq name "Sik-sik" mimics their distinctive alarm call.

§ Range

Alaska and northern Canada

§ Habitat

Arctic tundra with well-drained soils for burrows

§ Threats

Climate-driven permafrost changes, increased predator access, hunting (subsistence).

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the arctic ground squirrel is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Arctic conservation. Donate to Alaska wilderness preservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • University of Alaska Fairbanks Institute of Arctic Biology
  • National Park Service Alaska
  • IUCN Red List 2017