 DESCRIPTION:
Wt=21-28 oz (600-800g); L=17-21" (430-540 mm) with the tail another
7-10" (172-252 mm). Largest ground squirrel in its range (southwest).
Grayish-brown and mottled above, lighter below. Long, bushy tail and large
ears make it look like a tree squirrel, but it spends most of its time
on the ground.
NATURAL HISTORY: Omnivore, feeding on plant material, insects, birds and
their eggs, small rodents (I saw one carrying a Packrat
in its jaws), and carrion. Diurnal. Solitary or colonial. Look for them
scampering over the "rocky" exhibits at the Arizona-Sonora
Desert Museum. |
