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Kaibab Squirrel Area: A Natural Landmark

Discover the unique habitat of the Kaibab squirrel, a rare subspecies found only on the Kaibab Plateau in Grand Canyon National Park and Kaibab National Forest.

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The Kaibab Squirrel Area National Natural Landmark, located in the Kaibab Plateau, encompasses portions of the Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. This protected area is the primary habitat of the Kaibab squirrel, a unique subspecies of tassel-eared squirrel with a distinctive white tail and black belly, found nowhere else in the world.

A brief summary to Kaibab Squirrel Area National Natural Landmark

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance to see Kaibab squirrels.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing and a camera to capture the scenery.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the natural habitat and ensure personal safety.
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Getting There

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    From Jacob Lake, Arizona, travel south on Arizona Highway 67 towards the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The Kaibab Squirrel Area is located within the Kaibab National Forest. Look for signs indicating the National Natural Landmark. From any point within the Kaibab National Forest, navigate to Arizona Highway 67 (AZ-67). If you're near the North Rim Visitor Center, head east on North Rim Road and then turn south onto AZ-67. Continue south for about 10 miles until you reach the junction with Forest Road 22. Turn left onto Forest Road 22 and follow the signs for the Kaibab Squirrel Area National Natural Landmark.

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Discover more about Kaibab Squirrel Area National Natural Landmark

The Kaibab Squirrel Area National Natural Landmark protects approximately 200,000 acres (810 km2) of habitat for the Kaibab squirrel (Sciurus aberti kaibabensis). This unique squirrel is a subspecies of the Abert's squirrel, isolated on the Kaibab Plateau, north of the Grand Canyon. The isolation led to the evolution of distinct characteristics, including a black belly and a striking white tail, setting it apart from other Abert's squirrels. The landmark lies within the ponderosa pine forests of the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and the northern section of Kaibab National Forest, near Jacob Lake, Arizona. Designated in 1965, the area showcases a rare example of evolution through geographic isolation and the unique biodiversity of the region. The Kaibab Plateau's cooler, wetter environment supports dense conifer forests and groves of aspen trees, a stark contrast to the arid lands surrounding it. Visitors to the area can explore well-marked trails that wind through the forests, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and photography. The Kaibab squirrel relies on the ponderosa pine for food and shelter, building nests high in the trees. These squirrels don't hibernate and depend on the pine forests for survival throughout the year. The landmark serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts in protecting vulnerable species and their habitats.

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