Tamias striatus

Description

Squirrel-like rodent with a bushy tail held straight up while running. Black and white stripes on the face, side, and back that end at a reddish rump. Makes a loud, sharp chuck-chuck noise. Hibernates for most of the winter.

Habitat

Deciduous forests and bushy areas; can be seen in trees or on the ground.

Diet

Seeds, bulbs, fruits, nuts, insects, meat, eggs; will store food underground to eat later.

Range

Eastern United States and south-east Canada.

Other Useful Information

Chipmunks assist in the spread of the trees and shrubs they eat by taking the seeds and burying them in another location; those seeds not eaten have a chance to start a new plant.

Similar Species

Least chipmunk, Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel