California Ground Squirrel

What it is

The California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), is a common and easily observed ground squirrel of the western United States and the Baja California Peninsula; it is common in Oregon and California and its range has relatively recently extended into Washington and northwestern Nevada. Formerly placed in Spermophilus, as Spermophilus beecheyi, it was reclassified in Otospermophilus in 2009 as it became clear that Spermophilus as previously defined was not a natural (monophyletic) group. A full species account...

Where and when to find it

Habitat

You can find these squirrels in many places in California and parts of Oregon and Washington. They like open areas, grasslands, and even parks.

How to find it

Look for them near their burrows, often at the base of trees or rocks. They are very active during the day, especially when the sun is out.

Best time of day

Daytime, particularly morning and late afternoon in warmer months.

How it lives

What it eats

Seeds, nuts, fruits, grains, fungi, insects, and even bird eggs.

What eats it

Hawks, eagles, coyotes, badgers, snakes.

Worth knowing

• They can plug their burrows from the inside.
• They sometimes sunbathe on rocks to warm up.
• They communicate with each other using different calls and tail flicking.
• These squirrels often stand upright on their hind legs to get a better view of their surroundings.
• They sometimes use dirt or sand to 'sand bath,' which helps clean their fur.
• Baby ground squirrels are called pups!

Why it matters

California Ground Squirrels help scatter seeds, which helps new plants grow. Their digging also aerates the soil.