The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will accept feedback through Oct. 2 as it considers reclassifying the Western gray squirrel from threatened to endangered. According to WDFW, the designation means the species is seriously “threatened with extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.”
The move would bring an increased penalty for harming or killing a Western gray squirrel. As of 2007, the last time WDFW conducted a count, the state estimated there were between 468 and 1,405 squirrels in the state.
Threats to the Western grey squirrel’s small population include habitat loss, disease and road mortality, among others. As a protected species, the animal cannot be hunted, trapped or killed.
The Western grey squirrel is listed as a “vulnerable sensitive species” in Oregon, but is not protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act.
Those interested in providing feedback can call 855-925-2801, project code 6483, email gray-squirrel@PublicInput.com, complete an online survey at publicinput.com/gray-squirrel or mail a response to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife ATTN: Wildlife Program, P.O. Box 43200, Olympia, WA 98504.
WDFW will also accept in person feedback during a meeting in Yakima from Sept. 28 to 30. A ruling on the designation of the Western gray squirrel is expected in October.
