Mammals of the Table Rocks

California Ground Squirrel

Spermophilus beechseyi

USFWS

California Ground Squirrel

Spermophilus beechseyi

USFWS

I am active from dawn to dusk. I hibernate from November to February. You may see me climb into brush or a tree to bask in early-morning sunlight; otherwise I remain on the ground.

I sometimes eat insects and small vertebrates, but primarily feed on plant material, including leaves, stems, flowers, bulbs, roots, seeds, fruits, and berries. I can damage grain, fruit, and nut crops.

We form loose colonies, but tend to be antisocial. Several of us may occupy one burrow. Each animal uses its own entrance, and usually runs to its own hole, rather than the nearest hole. I like to build my burrow under a log, tree, or rock when one is available, but otherwise I use the open ground, with a mound at the main entrance.

I can have five to eight young in early spring.

The fleas found on me sometimes carry bubonic plague.

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