Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel
Callospermophilus lateralis
Callospermophilus lateralis
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Population, Conservation Status, Threats:
They are considered least concern by the IUCN, and their populations appear to be stable. An adaptable species at home in a diverse range of environments, their population appears to face few threats - though becoming too comfortable around humans, and dependent upon them for food, is a concern.
Physical Description:
Golden-mantled ground squirrels are easily mistaken for chipmunks due to the similarities in their appearances. The primary difference between the two species is size - ground squirrels are significantly larger than chipmunks - and the golden-mantled ground squirrel's lack of facial markings. As the name implies, the area around their face and neck is a yellow-brown to red-brown color, and lacks the striping of least chipmunks. They have paired dark stripes running down either side of their back, and a long, moderately bushy tail.
Overall golden-mantled ground squirrel range from Montana Field Guide. Golden-mantled ground squirrels are present in alpine and subalpine ecosystems across the American west.
Habitat:
Coniferous and mixed coniferous-hardwood forests across the American west and the rocky mountains. Can be found up to and even above the treeline, and sagebrush and meadow environments with ample shelter.
Behavior:
Unlike other species of ground squirrels, the golden-mantled ground squirrel is solitary. They dig burrows in which they store food, hibernate, and raise young.
Diet:
Golden-mantled ground squirrels are fairly opportunistic feeders, and much of their time during the warm months is spent fattening up to prepare for hibernation. Their diet includes acorns, pine nuts and other nuts and seeds, fungi and forbs, and even insects, eggs, small vertebrates, and carrion, when available. They are also known to scavenge human food from campsites and beg food off of campers.
Reproduction:
Mating occurs shortly after the end of hibernation. An average of 5 offspring are born per litter, and are raised exclusively by the mother. They wean after about a month, and leave the mother shortly thereafter to begin their solitary adult lives.
Associated Species:
Bobcats and coyotes frequently prey upon golden-mantled ground squirrels. They also often come into contact with humans, and can become used to human presence and reliant on human food resources.
Illustration by Willow Sedam
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