The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is a colorful squirrel of mountain forests and meadows, often mistaken for a chipmunk due to its similar striping, though it is noticeably larger and lacks facial stripes. It hibernates for up to seven months and builds up enormous fat reserves before entering torpor in autumn. Campers in western mountains often encounter this bold squirrel begging at picnic tables.
Habitat
Mountain forests, rocky meadows, and subalpine zones
Diet
Seeds, berries, fungi, insects, and cached nuts
How common
Common
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