The California Ground Squirrel is one of over a dozen ground squirrels in North America. With a head and body length of 9-11in/23-28 cm and its 5-9 in/13-23cm long bushy tail, it is also one of the largest.

One of the most recognizable feature of the California Ground Squirrel is a dark triangle on its back, between the shoulders. The sides of the shoulders and neck are also whitish. It also has a brownish body and head which are flecked with white.

The California Ground Squirrel is active day and night. It lives in colonies, constructing a network of burrows and tunnels from which is rarely ventures very far. Favourite foods include vegetation of various sorts as well as seeds, eggs and insects.

Walking in the Wild