ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel

 Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel

thirteen-lined ground squirrel

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of the Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel		 The thirteen-lined ground squirrel hibernates about six months out of the year!

thirteen0lined ground squirrel tracks

Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel Tracks
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Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
Spermophilus tridecemlineatus

At-a-Glance 

 • Typical Foods: omnivorous; feeds on seeds, insects, plant material and occasionally meat.
Description
This squirrel is brown with 13 whitish stripes on its sides and back. They are small, measuring about 7 to 12 inches long, including a three to five inch long tail.

Habitat and Habits
These small rodents can be found in open short and mid-grass prairies and golf courses. They dig extensive burrows to escape predators.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Soon after hibernation ends in April, these squirrels mate. After a gestation period of 28 days, 7 to 10 young are born. They mature quickly and leave the burrow after about a month. Females usually produce only one litter a year.