Least Chipmunk

Least chipmunks are a commonly seen mammal in Yellowstone National Park.

NPS

 

Least chipmunk track

Scientific Name

Tamias minimus

Identification

• 7.5–8.5 inches long, 1.2 ounces.
• Smallest member of the squirrel family; one of three chipmunk species in the park.
• Often mistaken for golden-mantled ground squirrel; distinguished by smaller size, longer tail, and lateral stripes that extend onto the sides of the head.

Habitat

• Prefers sagebrush valleys, shrub communities, and forest openings.
• Eat primarily plant material, especially seeds and other fruits, but will also eat conifer seeds and some insects.
• Preyed on by various hawks, grizzly bears, and probably foxes and coyotes.

Behavior

• In Yellowstone, this species hibernates but also stores some food and probably arouses frequently during the winter.
• Breeding begins as snowmelt occurs, usually late March until mid-May; one litter of 5–6 young per year.
• Little is known about their vocalizations but they do have “chipping” (which may be an alarm) and “clucking” calls.
• Can be identified by quick darting movements and it seems to carry its tail vertically when moving.