Parka Squirrel on the Boardwalk, Pederson Point

This cute little animal is also known as an Arctic Ground Squirrel or Spermophilus parryii.

They are the only ground squirrels in Alaska. Their fur has sometimes been used for clothing, thus the name "parka" squirrel. In the Bristol Bay region, and probably elsewhere in Alaska, they are referred to as a "parkee" squirrels.

Parkee squirrels are 14 to 18 inches in length and, at full growth, weigh around 2 pounds. They live on the tundra and hibernate deep underground (in sleeping chambers 5 to 8 feet below the surface) from September to May. They sometimes come out during the winter for short periods.They breed in May and have their litters of from 5 to 10 young, in June to July.

They are lively, mischievous little animals and amusing to watch. They make a startling, loud warning squeak that is hard to miss.

©Photo by Doug Littau with a Canon 20D

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