Common Names for Ground Squirrels 
If you’re considering raising a ground squirrel, you’re not alone – there are several species in the U.S. and Europe. These rodents are often mistaken for chipmunks, and they’re not the only ones that look similar to them. These creatures also live in shrubby and rocky sites, and are found in higher elevations. To make the decision a little easier, we’ve outlined a few common names for these creatures.
European ground squirrels
The European ground squirrel, Spermophilus citellus, is a diurnal colonial rodent found in eastern Europe and southeast Asia. Its range is divided by the Carpathian Mountains. These squirrels inhabit southern Ukraine, Turkey, Austria, and the Czech Republic. They also inhabit the grassy areas of lawns and sports fields. The main threats to the species are the conversion of grassland to urban areas and road construction. Because of these threats, European ground squirrels are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
European ground squirrels are highly endangered in some parts of Europe and the UK. Large-scale habitat destruction and human interference has led to a decline in the species’ population. Fortunately, they are not dangerous to humans. However, their widespread distribution threatens ecosystems, and their removal may cause other pest species to emerge. Although these ground squirrels are not dangerous to humans, they do harm the soil and ecosystem. Because of this, they are on the IUCN Red List as an Endangered species.
California ground squirrel
The California Ground Squirrel is an extremely prolific animal with an average litter size of eight. There are two genders and the general population has about equal numbers of males and females. Females generally produce one litter a year and have between six and ten young per litter. In the wild, this species is not found in populated areas. The short tailed ground squirrel is found in the state’s southwestern part and is not common.
The California Ground Squirrel has been recorded from two separate nesting territories. These burrows are made in a “hog-wallow” landscape, and are used to hunting for food. They build many burrows and live in colonies. They will migrate between burrows and live in them. If threatened, the California Ground Squirrel will seek refuge in another burrow.
White-tailed antelope squirrel
The white-tailed antelope squirrel is a ground squirrel in the order Rodentia and family Sciuridae. It is native to the arid areas of the southwestern United States and the Baja California Peninsula of northwestern Mexico. It has no known predators, but it is a popular pest in the wild. You can easily spot them by looking for their distinctive white tail.
It is found throughout California’s deserts. They are diurnal and most active during the early morning and late afternoon. They rest in burrows during the day to avoid the heat from the sun. Females live in burrows with young throughout the year. This species prefers rocky deserts, shrubs, and cactus. Its behavior is adapted to avoid predation.
The white-tailed antelope squirrel is an incredibly adorable creature. The smallest members of the species are just over a quarter of an inch long. They are often called kit, kitten, or pup. These babies are blind and hairless, and they rely on their parents for their survival. While females keep their young underground, males will often bring their young to the cooler parts of the forest to protect them from the sun.
Yellow-bellied marmot
The Yellow-bellied marmot is a small, burrowing rodent that can range in size from 47-68 cm (18 1/2-27 inches). The marmots have a brown coat with yellow-white markings on the belly, black eyes, and a black nose. The animals are active year-round and burrow in rocky areas, but during winter, they dig burrows under rocks and hide in nearby rock piles.
Marmots hibernate for six to eight months during the winter months. During this period, their heart rate and metabolism slow down. They also burn body fat to gain energy for survival. Unlike most rodents, marmots do not truly hibernate. Once their hibernation is over, they begin breeding season. The female marmot gives birth to one pup after thirty-two days of gestation.
In addition to being a rodent, marmots also live in burrows. Most species build burrows in boulder fields, rocky slopes, and in crevices in cliff faces. Their burrows provide them with protection from predators and are also excellent observation sites. But don’t get too excited, marmots aren’t the only animals that live in burrows!
What is the name of the animal with the short-tailed ground squirrel?
The animal is called a ground squirrel.
What are the characteristics of the ground squirrel?
The ground squirrel is a small rodent with a short bushy tail.
It is found in North and South America.
What is the ground squirrel’s habitat?
The ground squirrel’s habitat is in open areas such as fields parks and gardens.
What does the ground squirrel eat?
The ground squirrel’s diet consists of plants fruits and nuts.
How does the ground squirrel reproduce?
The ground squirrel reproduces by having two to six young per litter.
What is the ground squirrel’s life span?
The ground squirrel’s life span is two to three years.
How much does the ground squirrel weigh?
The ground squirrel weighs between five and ten ounces.
What is the ground squirrel’s predators?
The ground squirrel’s predators are birds of prey snakes and other small mammals.
How does the ground squirrel defend itself?
The ground squirrel defends itself by running away or by using its sharp claws and teeth.
What color is the ground squirrel’s fur?
The ground squirrel’s fur is brown with a white belly.
Does the ground squirrel hibernate?
Yes the ground squirrel hibernates during the winter.
What is the ground squirrel’s scientific name?
The ground squirrel’s scientific name is Spermophilus tridecemlineatus.
What family does the ground squirrel belong to?
The ground squirrel belongs to the family of squirrels known as Sciuridae.
What order does the ground squirrel belong to?
The ground squirrel belongs to the order Rodentia.
Is the ground squirrel endangered?
No the ground squirrel is not endangered.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
