Harris Ground Squirrel

Some people mistake the Harris Ground Squirrel for a chipmunk because of its size but it is actually a member of rodents referred to as Antelope Ground Squirrels.  This type of ground squirrel was named after Edward Harris.  Harris presented Audubon with the specimen from which the original description was made.

Home is the Sonoran Desert

The Harris Ground Squirrel is found over the greater part of northwestern, central  and southern Arizona, and south through central Sonora, Mexico.  They are playful, noisy, curious, energetic and happiest when playing in the fierce summer sun.   It often sits up straight on its hind legs, like a prairie dog.

Roots provide protection

Their burrow generally goes straight or almost straight down half a foot or more, and then winds between the roots for safety from its digging enemies.  Its enemies include rattlesnakes,  and roadrunners which may gobble up the young, ravens and birds of prey such as Harris hawks.  At night, they are usually safe in their burrows when owls are out looking for their next meal.

Thinks ahead to use living space efficiently

It stores mesquitebeans in its underground burrow and is seen infrequently during colder weather.  It husks the seeds from their long pods before carrying them underground.  It also eats beetles and grasshoppers as a source of protein. The young , usually numbering seven or eight or as many as 14, are born in late February of more.  Molts twice a year but the hairs of the tail are only shed once a year, in the autumn