Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel

Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel

NPS Photo

Callospermophilus lateralis

Size (length and weight): 9 to 12 inches (23 cm to 30 cm) nose to tail; 11.5 to 17.5 ounces (325 to 500 g)
Habitat: Common in mid to high elevations throughout Utah
Diet: Omnivore; Diet includes fungi, leaves, fruit, flowers, seeds, insects, and some small vertebrates
Predators: coyote, weasels, badgers, hawks

General Biology:

The Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel is a grayish-brown color on top with two lateral white stripes bordered by black strips on either side. The underside is a very light yellow. The head, neck and shoulders are reddish to tan in color. Its tail is brown on top and yellowish below. The Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel is commonly confused with the Uinta Chipmunk which is also common in Bryce Canyon National Park. The primary difference is that the Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel does not have striping around its eyes.

Behavior:

Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrels are found throughout the western U.S. and Canada, from Colorado to northern California, north to western British Columbia and eastern Alberta and south to New Mexico and northern Arizona. They are found in a wide variety of habitats at higher altitudes, from woodland areas to alpine meadows. They are frequently found in areas of natural and human-caused disturbance. Their burrows are found in rock outcrops as well as underground. Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrels are true hibernators that will triple their body weight throughout the summer in preparation for the long winter underground. The reproduction cycle begins in March or April at the end of hibernation. Females will have one litter of five to six offspring each year. The maximum lifespan of a Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel is up to seven years.

Conservation:

The Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel is common throughout its range. While there are no active efforts to protect the species, visitors to Bryce Canyon National Park should not feed any wildlife they may encounter while visiting the park. Feeding any wild animal may lead to disease for the wildlife or injury to humans. When wildlife is fed by us, they become dependent and a nuisance to others who may want to enjoy the park.

When to see at Bryce Canyon:

Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrels may be seen throughout the summer season in the forests and prairies on the plateau.