Know your Target!
If in doubt, please check with an Idaho Fish and Game Regional Office in the area you wish to hunt for more detailed information on the distribution of ground squirrels.
A valid hunting license is required to hunt ground squirrels. It is your responsibility to verify your prey. Many ground squirrels are protected by State or Federal laws.
Hunting not allowed
Hunting of ground squirrels is not allowed for some species with limited abundance and distribution. These species include:
- Northern Idaho ground squirrel,
- Southern Idaho ground squirrel,
- Rock squirrel,
- Piute ground squirrel (eastern Idaho populations),
- Merriam's ground squirrel,
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel,
- Wyoming ground squirrel (southwest Idaho population).
Hunting allowed
Ground squirrel hunting is legal for the following species:
- White-tailed Antelope squirrel,
- Uinta Ground squirrel,
- Piute ground squirrel (western Idaho populations),
- Belding's Ground squirrel,
- Columbian Ground squirrel,
- two subspecies of Wyoming ground squirrel (east Idaho populations), and
- Yellow-bellied marmot (also known as Rock chuck).