Chipmunks

Chipmunks

Tamias

Appearance

Chipmunks Image
  • 8–11.5" long, plus bushy 3–4" tail.
  • Colour varies from gray to reddish-brown depending on species.
  • Have light and dark stripes across the sides of their face, back and tail.
  • Podgy cheeks for carrying food.

Lifecycle

  • Start to mate early Spring.
  • Female produces a litter of 2-8 young.
  • Stay with their parents for 2 months then leave to forage on their own.
  • After five months the young will mature to adult size.
  • They lie dormant during Winter.
  • Live for 2 to 3 years in the wild.

Habits

  • Feeding - Grain, nuts, birds' eggs, berries, fungi, insects.
  • Chipmunks are active burrow dwellers and store food underground.
  • Location - Live in burrows below ground level. Entrances are well hidden, under rocks or in bushes.