WTAMU addresses growing squirrel activity on campus

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

University taking steps to safely manage situation and keep community informed

CANYON, Texas – West Texas A&M University is responding to an increase in squirrel activity on campus during the spring 2026 semester after several reports have been received of squirrels bothering students in busy areas. The university is taking steps to keep people safe while handling the situation in a humane and responsible way.

In recent weeks, squirrels have been seen more often near places like the Jack B. Kelley Student Center and the Cornette Library. A biology professor on campus estimates the squirrel population has grown a lot in recent years because of mild winters, more green spaces, and students feeding them. In March, a video of a squirrel interrupting class and grabbing food went viral, bringing more attention to the issue from students and local media.

“We know this situation has gotten a lot of attention and has grown to be a conflict. We want everyone to know we’re taking it seriously,” said a university official. “Our goal is to keep campus safe while also treating the animals with care. So, we ask the community to work with us and follow our guidelines.”

The university is working with Panhandle Critter Control to safely trap and move squirrels to a nature area outside of Amarillo. This process is expected to take about six to eight weeks. New signs have also been placed around campus reminding students to not feed wildlife and that the university is working to reduce food sources that attract squirrels.

The university will continue to watch the situation and make changes if needed. Officials say there is no immediate safety risk but encourage students and staff to stay aware and follow campus guidelines.

Boilerplate:

A Regional Research University, West Texas A&M University is redefining excellence inCanyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus, as well as the Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center in downtown Amarillo. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT boasts an enrollment of more than 9,000 and offers 66 undergraduate degree programs, including eight associate degrees; and 44 graduate degrees, including an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree, a specialist degree and two doctoral degrees. WT recently earned a Carnegie Foundation classification as a Research College and University. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 16 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

Contact Information:

Valeria Rodriguez, Student, vrodrigues5@buffs.wtamu.edu, 915-240-5728,

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