It is found in Central and South America (Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela) and the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago and Margarita.

[2][3] According to the Global Register of Introduced and Invasive Species it has also been introduced and is invasive in Cuba,[3] however this refers to a small population found around some parts of the margin of Rio Almendares in Havana that escaped from the Havana Zoo.

These two species are the only two squirrels of South America which possess 3 pairs of teats and a patch of lighter coloured (generally orange) fur on the head behind the ears (except the subspecies morulus and chapmani).

[5] It is also closely related to Sciurus richmondi of Nicaragua, which replaces S. granatensis ssp.

[6][7] This is a common squirrel with a stable population and a vast range consisting of different habitats, including human influenced environments, thus it is not thought to be at threat.