Minnesota’s forests, parks, and suburban yards are home to an impressive variety of squirrels, each with its own set of habits, colors, and ecological roles. From the acrobatic Eastern Gray Squirrel to the elusive flying species, these small mammals are more than just cute backyard visitors—they contribute significantly to seed dispersal, forest regeneration, and the intricate balance of local ecosystems. In this guide, we explore ten fascinating types of squirrels in Minnesota, providing identification tips, behavior insights, and interesting facts for each species. Whether you’re an amateur naturalist or simply curious about your neighborhood wildlife, this article will deepen your appreciation for these clever rodents.
1. Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is a familiar figure in Minnesota, distinguished by its soft gray fur, large bushy tail, and white underbelly. Adults typically measure 16–20 inches from nose to tail and weigh about 1–1.5 pounds. Seasonal fur changes can create a slightly brownish hue in winter. Look for their alert posture and characteristic tail arching over the back, often resembling a fluffy question mark. Some individuals exhibit melanism, appearing almost black, which can confuse casual observers but adds to the species’ charm.
Behavior
Gray squirrels are primarily active during daylight hours. They spend mornings foraging and afternoons grooming or napping. While generally solitary, their territories often overlap. Communication occurs through tail flicks, chirps, and alarm calls. A notable behavior is their incredible memory for food caches; they can remember thousands of hidden nuts throughout the forest and urban areas, which indirectly aids in forest regeneration by forgetting some caches that later sprout into new trees.
Habitat and Range
They inhabit a wide range of environments across Minnesota, from urban parks to mixed hardwood forests. Gray squirrels favor oak, maple, and hickory trees, which supply acorns and seeds critical for survival. Dreys, or tree nests, are built high in branches, though occasionally they may occupy attics or birdhouses when natural cavities are scarce. Their adaptability makes them one of Minnesota’s most widespread squirrel species.
Diet
Eastern Gray Squirrels are omnivorous, feeding on nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and occasionally bird eggs. In late summer and fall, they bury acorns and other nuts in shallow caches for winter consumption. This hoarding behavior not only sustains them through the colder months but also contributes to reforestation by allowing forgotten nuts to germinate.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs twice yearly, typically in late winter and midsummer. Gestation lasts about 44 days, producing litters of three to four kits. Young are born blind and furless, remaining in the nest for nearly two months before venturing out. Lifespan averages six years in the wild, though predators and harsh winters often reduce this.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Gray squirrels can leap up to nine feet horizontally and rotate their hind feet 180 degrees to descend trees head-first. They often share dreys for warmth during winter, a rare cooperative behavior among rodents. Their ability to adapt to urban areas makes them a familiar yet fascinating presence for Minnesotans.
Human Interaction
Humans encounter gray squirrels daily, whether in backyards, parks, or campuses. They may raid birdfeeders or gardens, but most people enjoy observing their energetic antics. Providing designated feeding platforms or squirrel-proof feeders allows coexistence without conflict, while wildlife rehabilitators note their strong survival instincts when reintroduced into the wild.
2. Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
The Fox Squirrel is Minnesota’s largest tree squirrel, measuring 18–27 inches from nose to tail and weighing up to 2.5 pounds. Its coat is generally reddish-brown on the back with a rusty or orange underbelly. The bushy tail, often tipped with black or gray, adds to its striking appearance. Fox squirrels are slower and less agile than gray squirrels but are unmistakable due to their size, warm coloration, and long, expressive tails.
Behavior
Fox squirrels are diurnal and solitary. They are less vocal than gray squirrels but display territorial behaviors during breeding season, including chasing and tail flicking. These squirrels are excellent climbers, yet they spend more time on the ground than gray squirrels, foraging for nuts and seeds. Their deliberate movements give them an almost “careful” demeanor in contrast to the energetic gray squirrel.
Habitat and Range
Fox squirrels prefer open forests, mixed woodlands, and urban parks, especially areas with mature oak and hickory trees. They are less tolerant of dense forest understory compared to red or gray squirrels. Dreys are built high in trees, and occasionally the squirrels will use abandoned woodpecker holes for nesting.
Diet
Fox squirrels primarily eat nuts such as acorns, hickory, and walnuts, supplemented by seeds, berries, and fungi. In winter, they rely heavily on cached food. Unlike gray squirrels, they tend to create fewer, larger caches and may defend these more aggressively from intruders.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Fox squirrels breed once or twice a year, depending on food availability. Gestation lasts about 45 days, with litters averaging two to four young. Juveniles remain in the nest for six to eight weeks. Lifespan in the wild ranges from 4 to 6 years, with predation and winter conditions as the main limiting factors.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Fox squirrels are among the largest tree squirrels in North America and can travel impressive distances on the ground. They often appear almost “comical” when balancing on power lines or low fences. Despite their size, they are surprisingly nimble in trees, capable of twisting and leaping to avoid predators.
Human Interaction
These squirrels occasionally raid birdfeeders and gardens but are generally less of a nuisance than gray squirrels. Observers often admire their bold appearance and slower, deliberate movements. In some areas, wildlife programs track fox squirrels to study urban adaptation and seed dispersal patterns.
3. American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
The American Red Squirrel is smaller than both gray and fox squirrels, measuring about 12 inches in length and weighing roughly half a pound. Its coat is bright reddish-brown on the back, with a white belly and faint black line separating the two colors. The tail is bushy but slightly shorter than other tree squirrels. Large, dark eyes and rapid movements make this species easy to recognize in coniferous forests.
Behavior
Red squirrels are highly territorial and vocal. They emit sharp “chatter” calls to defend their territory and warn others of intruders. Unlike gray squirrels, which rely heavily on scatter-hoarding, red squirrels maintain centralized caches called middens, which may contain thousands of cone scales. They are energetic and constantly forage throughout the day, balancing feeding, grooming, and territorial defense.
Habitat and Range
Red squirrels dominate northern Minnesota’s spruce-fir forests but are also found in mixed woodlands with abundant conifers. They prefer areas with dense tree cover, where they can build nests in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or branch tangles. They are rarely seen in urban areas, favoring remote or semi-wild habitats.
Diet
Conifer seeds are the primary food source, supplemented by berries, fungi, insects, and occasionally bird eggs. Red squirrels often strip unripe cones and hang them in trees to dry before extracting the seeds. This behavior helps them survive harsh winters and demonstrates remarkable foresight and planning.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding begins in late winter or early spring. Females produce litters of three to six pups after a gestation of about 35 days. Young are dependent for six weeks before venturing out. Adult red squirrels typically live three to five years, though some may reach eight under favorable conditions.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Red squirrels clip cones before they mature, reducing competition for their cached seeds. They have a wide range of vocalizations, including more than 20 distinct calls. Their memory for midden locations allows them to revisit the same cache year after year—a skill critical for survival in harsh northern winters.
Human Interaction
Campers and hikers in Minnesota’s forests often hear red squirrels before seeing them. Their rapid chatter and energetic foraging make them memorable woodland residents. Though they may occasionally take food from unattended campsites, they are generally harmless and provide observers with endless entertainment. Conservationists track their populations to monitor forest health and seed dispersal patterns.
4. Northern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
The Northern Flying Squirrel is a small, nocturnal marvel of Minnesota’s northern forests. Adults range from 10 to 12 inches including their tail and weigh about 2–4 ounces. Their soft fur is chocolate-brown on top and pale cream underneath, with large dark eyes adapted for night vision. The signature feature is the patagium—a thin skin membrane stretching from wrist to ankle—that allows them to glide between trees. Unlike birds, they cannot truly fly; instead, they parachute gracefully, using their flattened tail to steer with precision.
Behavior
Active at night, these squirrels spend the day resting in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes. They are social, sometimes sharing nests with multiple individuals to conserve warmth. Gliding allows them to escape predators and efficiently search for food, often covering 100–150 feet in a single leap. Communication is subtle, with soft chirps and squeaks coordinating movements among nestmates.
Habitat and Range
Northern Flying Squirrels inhabit boreal and mixed forests in northern Minnesota, favoring mature spruce, fir, and hemlock stands. They rely on large, old trees for nesting and connected canopies to glide safely. Fragmentation of forests can disrupt their movement, making intact corridors essential for their survival.
Diet
While they consume nuts, seeds, and berries, these squirrels have a particular affinity for fungi, especially truffles growing underground. By consuming and dispersing spores, they help maintain healthy tree-fungi symbiosis. Seasonal diets may include insects or tree sap, but conifer seeds and fungi remain staples year-round.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs once per year in early spring. Females produce litters of two to five young after a gestation of roughly 38 days. Juveniles remain in the nest for six weeks, practicing short glides under maternal supervision. Adults can live up to five years, though predation and food scarcity often limit lifespan.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
These squirrels are remarkably agile in the air, capable of mid-glide corrections and precise landings. Infrared studies have shown them gliding together in coordinated pairs. Their nocturnal habits and quiet gliding make them difficult to observe, contributing to their mystique in Minnesota’s forests.
Human Interaction
Because they are nocturnal, humans rarely see Northern Flying Squirrels. They may occasionally nest in attics near forested properties. Conservationists monitor them as indicators of old-growth forest health. Providing mature tree habitats and preserving canopy connectivity helps maintain their populations.
5. Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
Smaller than their northern counterparts, Southern Flying Squirrels measure 9–10 inches from nose to tail tip, weighing only about 2–3 ounces. They have soft gray-brown fur with creamy underparts, large black eyes, and a patagium for gliding. Their flattened tails act like rudders in mid-air. Unlike Northern Flying Squirrels, they are more common in southern Minnesota and lower-elevation woodlands.
Behavior
These squirrels are strictly nocturnal, emerging after sunset to forage. They are highly social, often forming communal nests during colder months. Gliding allows them to cover distances up to 30 yards with quiet precision. Southern Flying Squirrels are curious and cautious, inspecting new areas before committing to a glide or landing.
Habitat and Range
Southern Minnesota woodlands, especially mixed deciduous forests with oaks, beeches, and hickories, provide ideal habitats. They prefer areas with tree cavities for nesting and avoid open fields. These squirrels can sometimes be spotted in suburban yards with large, mature trees and natural understory cover.
Diet
Omnivorous, Southern Flying Squirrels feed on nuts, seeds, berries, fungi, and insects. They often cache acorns and other nuts, sometimes marking them with gnawed shells. Insect consumption increases in summer, while winter relies on stored seeds and nuts.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs twice per year, usually in late winter and midsummer. Litter sizes average three to five. Young are born hairless and blind, remaining dependent for six weeks before gliding with their mother. Lifespan averages four to five years, with predation by owls and snakes shaping population dynamics.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
These squirrels’ nocturnal activities make them hard to observe, but their communal nesting is a fascinating behavior rarely seen in other rodent species. They are exceptional climbers, running headfirst down tree trunks and leaping silently between branches. UV light studies reveal their fur glows faintly, possibly aiding nocturnal communication.
Human Interaction
They may nest in attics or abandoned birdhouses near wooded areas. Though mostly unnoticed by humans, they delight wildlife enthusiasts who use red-filtered lights to watch gliding events. Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature trees and canopy continuity to maintain populations.
6. Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
The Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrel is a small, striking rodent measuring 7–10 inches in length and weighing around 3–5 ounces. Its brownish-gray back features thirteen alternating light and dark stripes running from head to tail, with a pale underside. Unlike tree squirrels, it lacks a bushy tail, which gives it a more streamlined appearance. Quick, low-to-the-ground movements are characteristic, along with frequent head-raising scans for predators.
Behavior
Diurnal and highly active during daylight, these squirrels spend most of their time foraging for seeds, insects, and small fruits. They are solitary and territorial, communicating with soft chirps and tail flicks. Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrels are exceptional diggers, maintaining complex burrow systems with food storage chambers, sleeping quarters, and escape tunnels.
Habitat and Range
They inhabit open grasslands, prairies, and meadows in Minnesota. They avoid dense forests, preferring short vegetation for predator visibility. Burrows are carefully maintained and often reused year after year. Their range overlaps agricultural areas, though they are less common in urban settings.
Diet
Primarily herbivorous, they feed on seeds, grains, and berries, but will also consume insects. In preparation for hibernation, they build up fat reserves and stockpile food in burrows. Their feeding habits contribute to seed dispersal and control of insect populations, providing ecological benefits to prairie ecosystems.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs once in spring, producing litters of four to seven pups after a gestation of roughly 28 days. Young emerge from burrows after about six weeks, learning to forage independently. Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrels hibernate for 5–6 months, depending on winter severity. Lifespan averages three to five years in the wild.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Despite their small size, these squirrels have remarkable memory for burrow locations and stored food. They perform “tail flicking” as a communication method and are capable of short, rapid sprints to escape predators. Their striped pattern provides excellent camouflage among prairie grasses.
Human Interaction
Farmers may consider them minor pests due to burrowing in fields, but their role in controlling insect populations is valuable. Wildlife watchers enjoy observing their active foraging behavior and unique striping. Providing prairie-like habitats in conservation areas encourages healthy populations and ecological balance.
7. Franklin’s Ground Squirrel (Poliocitellus franklinii)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
Franklin’s Ground Squirrel is a medium-sized rodent, measuring 9–11 inches from nose to tail and weighing 6–12 ounces. Its fur is brown with scattered lighter spots, giving it a mottled appearance, while the belly is paler. Unlike tree squirrels, its tail is relatively short and less bushy. A careful observer will notice its sharp claws and strong forelimbs, perfect for digging extensive burrows. Its alert posture, frequently standing on hind legs to survey surroundings, is characteristic of this ground-dwelling species.
Behavior
Diurnal and shy, Franklin’s Ground Squirrels spend much of the day foraging near their burrow entrances. They are solitary, defending territories and using soft chirps or tail flicks for communication. These squirrels hibernate during Minnesota’s long winters, emerging in spring to begin a cycle of feeding, mating, and caching food. They are fast runners but cannot climb trees effectively, relying on burrows for protection from predators like hawks, foxes, and snakes.
Habitat and Range
They inhabit open fields, meadows, and edges of forests, favoring areas with well-drained soil for burrowing. Their range in Minnesota is mostly southern and central parts of the state. Burrows are carefully dug with multiple chambers, including separate areas for nesting, storing food, and emergency escapes.
Diet
Omnivorous in habits, they feed on seeds, grains, berries, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. Seasonal variations affect their diet; in summer, insects provide protein, while seeds and nuts dominate in fall. They cache excess food near their burrows, supporting survival during scarce periods.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs shortly after emergence from hibernation. Litter sizes range from 4–7, with gestation lasting about 28–30 days. Juveniles emerge fully furred and quickly learn to forage independently. Franklin’s Ground Squirrels generally live 3–4 years in the wild, though predation and environmental factors can shorten lifespan.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
These squirrels are among Minnesota’s most vocal ground squirrels, producing a variety of chirps, chatters, and squeals to communicate. Their ability to hibernate for long winter months is critical to surviving harsh climates. Observers often note their upright stance, almost comical in its alertness, as they scan for danger.
Human Interaction
Farmers sometimes view Franklin’s Ground Squirrels as minor pests due to burrowing near crops, but they also play a role in pest control by consuming insects. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts enjoy spotting their distinctive foraging and alert behaviors in open meadows.
8. Richardson’s Ground Squirrel (Urocitellus richardsonii)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
Richardson’s Ground Squirrel is slightly larger than Franklin’s, measuring 10–12 inches and weighing 10–14 ounces. Its coat is gray-brown with subtle spotting along the back, and a pale belly. The short tail and compact body aid in digging and sprinting across open prairie. They are often seen with noses pointed upward, standing on hind legs to survey for predators.
Behavior
Diurnal and social, Richardson’s Ground Squirrels live in colonies, unlike many other ground squirrel species. They dig extensive burrows interconnected in prairie systems, creating complex networks for shelter and food storage. Alarm calls are loud, shrill whistles, often alerting nearby squirrels to approaching threats. They hibernate for much of winter, with emergence timed to maximize spring foraging.
Habitat and Range
They inhabit open grasslands, agricultural fields, and prairies in western and central Minnesota. Well-drained soil is crucial for burrowing. Their colonies can cover large areas, with each individual maintaining a personal burrow while benefiting from communal vigilance.
Diet
Primarily herbivorous, they feed on grasses, seeds, and grains, but also consume insects during summer. They store surplus food in their burrows for early spring consumption after hibernation. By dispersing seeds, they contribute to prairie ecosystem health.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs soon after spring emergence. Litters of 5–8 pups are born following a gestation of about 30 days. Juveniles quickly learn foraging and burrow maintenance. Lifespan typically ranges from 3–4 years in the wild, influenced by predation and harsh winters.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Richardson’s Ground Squirrels have remarkable social coordination within colonies. Alarm calls are highly effective in alerting neighboring squirrels, earning them the nickname “prairie sentinels.” Their burrow systems often house multiple generations, highlighting a primitive form of communal living among rodents.
Human Interaction
They occasionally interfere with crops or landscaping but are generally tolerated due to ecological benefits. Birdwatchers and prairie enthusiasts enjoy observing their activity, and their presence indicates healthy prairie habitat.
9. Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
Eastern Chipmunks are small, lively squirrels, measuring 8–10 inches with a weight of 2–5 ounces. They have five dark stripes down their backs separated by pale lines and a rounded bushy tail. Their large eyes and prominent cheek pouches make them instantly recognizable. Quick, darting movements and constant foraging are hallmark traits.
Behavior
Chipmunks are diurnal and solitary, except during mating. They maintain complex burrow systems and are highly territorial. They communicate through chirps and tail flicks and are remarkable at remembering cache locations for later retrieval. Active foragers, they can spend hours gathering seeds and berries each day.
Habitat and Range
They thrive in woodlands, stone walls, and suburban gardens throughout Minnesota. Burrows are elaborate, with storage chambers, nesting areas, and escape tunnels. They prefer areas with dense cover to hide from predators while foraging.
Diet
Chipmunks are omnivorous, consuming seeds, berries, nuts, fungi, and insects. Cheek pouches allow transport of large amounts of food to burrows for caching. Seasonal diets shift to favor energy-dense foods in fall for winter survival.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Chipmunks breed twice per year, producing litters of 4–5 young. Gestation lasts around 31 days. Juveniles emerge after six weeks and quickly begin foraging. Typical lifespan is 2–3 years, with some reaching 5 in optimal conditions.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Chipmunks have excellent spatial memory for hundreds of hidden caches. They often include “waste chambers” in burrows, a rare behavior among rodents. In autumn, cheek pouches can swell comically, giving them a round, busy appearance.
Human Interaction
Gardeners may notice chipmunks raiding birdfeeders or bulbs, but they are generally harmless and entertaining. Observing them provides insight into small mammal behavior and their role in seed dispersal and insect control.
10. Woodchuck / Groundhog (Marmota monax)
Physical Characteristics & Identification Tips
Woodchucks are large ground squirrels, measuring 16–26 inches in length and weighing 4–9 pounds. Their stocky bodies are covered in coarse brown fur with lighter undersides. Short, bushy tails, strong forelimbs, and prominent incisors aid in digging extensive burrows. Their rounded ears and expressive faces give them a charismatic appearance often associated with folklore and “Groundhog Day.”
Behavior
Woodchucks are primarily diurnal, spending mornings foraging and afternoons resting. They are excellent diggers, creating extensive burrow systems with multiple chambers. Solitary by nature, they hibernate during winter months for 4–6 months, retreating deep underground to escape harsh cold. Alarm calls include whistles and huffs, alerting nearby animals to danger.
Habitat and Range
They prefer open fields, meadows, and edges of forests, often near stone walls or fences. Burrows are extensive and may be reused for years. Woodchucks are widespread throughout Minnesota and are highly adaptable to suburban and rural environments.
Diet
Primarily herbivorous, woodchucks feed on grasses, clovers, garden vegetables, and fruits. In summer and fall, they consume large quantities to build fat reserves for hibernation. Occasionally, they may nibble on insects or small invertebrates.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Breeding occurs shortly after emergence from hibernation. Litters of 3–6 pups are born after a 31–32 day gestation. Juveniles leave the burrow after 5–6 weeks. Lifespan ranges from 3–6 years in the wild, limited mainly by predation and disease.
Fun Facts / Unique Traits
Woodchucks can dig tunnels up to 30 feet long, creating multiple chambers. Their hibernation habits and ability to predict seasonal changes inspired the cultural tradition of Groundhog Day. They have sharp claws and strong muscles for burrowing, making them nature’s engineers of open fields.
Human Interaction
Woodchucks are often seen in gardens and fields, sometimes considered pests due to burrowing and vegetation consumption. Despite this, they are admired for their industriousness and contribute to soil aeration and ecosystem health. Observing their daily routines provides a glimpse into the fascinating life of Minnesota’s largest ground squirrel.
FAQ’s
1. What is the most common squirrel in Minnesota?
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is the most common squirrel in Minnesota. They are widespread in forests, suburban areas, and city parks throughout the state.
2. Are there fox squirrels in Minnesota?
Yes, Eastern Fox Squirrels are found in southern Minnesota. They are larger than gray squirrels and have reddish-brown fur with bushy tails.
3. Does Minnesota have black squirrels?
Yes, black squirrels, a melanistic variant of the Eastern Gray Squirrel, can be found in parts of Minnesota, though they are less common than gray or fox squirrels.
4. How rare is it to see a white squirrel in Minnesota?
White squirrels are extremely rare in Minnesota. They are typically the result of a genetic mutation, and only a few sightings are reported each year.
5. What kind of squirrels are in Minnesota?
Minnesota has Eastern Gray Squirrels, Eastern Fox Squirrels, Red Squirrels, and a small population of Northern Flying Squirrels. Each species occupies specific habitats from urban areas to dense forests.
6. Do you need a license to hunt squirrels in Minnesota?
Yes, a small game hunting license is required to hunt squirrels in Minnesota. Hunters must also follow bag limits and season dates set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
7. Are white squirrels rare in Minnesota?
Yes, white squirrels are very rare. They occur due to a genetic mutation and are mostly seen in certain towns or forested areas as isolated populations.
8. What is the largest squirrel in Minnesota?
The Eastern Fox Squirrel is the largest squirrel in Minnesota, weighing up to 2–3 pounds with a body length of about 18–22 inches including the tail.
9. Do red squirrels live in Minnesota?
Yes, Eastern Red Squirrels are common in northern forests and wooded areas. They are smaller than gray squirrels, have reddish fur, and are known for being very vocal and energetic.
10. Where do squirrels go in the winter in Minnesota?
Squirrels stay active during winter but spend more time in nests (dreys) or tree cavities. They rely on stored food like nuts and seeds and are adapted to survive the cold Minnesota winters.
11. Can you feed squirrels in Minnesota?
Feeding squirrels is generally allowed on private property, but overfeeding can cause dependency or health problems. Feeding in public parks may be restricted, so it’s best to check local regulations.
Conclusion
Minnesota’s diverse landscapes—from northern coniferous forests to southern prairies—support a rich variety of squirrels, each with unique adaptations and roles in their ecosystems. From acrobatic tree squirrels like the Eastern Gray and Fox Squirrel to elusive gliders and industrious ground-dwellers, these mammals are essential for seed dispersal, forest regeneration, and maintaining ecological balance. Observing their behaviors, vocalizations, and interactions with the environment offers both educational insights and recreational enjoyment. By preserving habitats and respecting their ecological importance, Minnesotans can continue to enjoy these fascinating creatures for generations to come.
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