EASTERN
CHIPMUNK
#CMK-500
Notecards Only
Also available in Notecard Assortment Packs #AST-501,
#AST-502 & #AST-505
The
Eastern Chipmunk is found throughout most of the eastern half
of the United States and the eastern half of Canada. Habitats
include sparse forests, brushy areas, and gardens. Favorite foods
include nuts especially hazelnuts and beechnuts, fruits, berries,
seeds, flower bulbs, and insects.
Chipmunks
are ground-dwelling squirrels. Their elaborate burrows include
many tunnels and chambers, with several concealed entrances. Off
the main corridor are several food storerooms. And somewhere,
well below frost level, is a nest cushioned with roots and chipped
up dry leaves.
In
April, mature females give birth to litters of three to six young.
Females born the prior year might not give birth until July or
August. Young from spring litters usually have enough time to
dig their own burrows, but young from summer litters will probably
spend the winter with mom.
During
hot summer days, chipmunks stay below ground in their cool dens.
Then, from September through November, they work hard gathering
food supplies for winter. Food is carried to their underground
pantries in outsized cheek pouches. Chipmunks partially hibernate
in the winter, but wake frequently to feed. On warm winter days
they may leave their burrows.
Text
© 1995 Dianne Harrah, Drawing © 1995 Bill Harrah.
CHIPMUNKS
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