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California Ground Squirrel
Otospermophilus beecheyi
39.7363, -121.828
Field Notes
Description:
the Calif. Ground Squirrel can grow to 12 inches with tail another 5-6 inches. This squirrel is about 7-8 inches with a 5 inch tail. The squirrel's upper parts are mottled, the fur containing a mixture of gray, brown, black and dusky hairs; the underside is a lighter gray, buff or grayish yellow. The fur around the eyes is whitish.
Habitat:
California ground squirrels live in burrows that they excavate themselves. Some burrows are occupied communally but each individual squirrel has its own entrance. They spend most of their time on the ground and on rocks but will climb a tree to escape danger if they cannot get to their burrow. This one was living in a large wooded area with lots of oaks and a year around creek near by. The day I took this picture the temp. was about 95 degrees F.
Notes:
California ground squirrels are frequently preyed on by rattlesnakes which are plentiful in this area. They are also preyed on by eagles, large hawks, raccoons, foxes, badgers, and weasels. California ground squirrels are often regarded as a pest in gardens and parks, since they will eat ornamental plants and trees. They feed on seeds, insects, and fruits and garden vegetables.
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