The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel (Callospermophilus lateralis) is a captivating and charismatic rodent that brings life and color to the mountainous regions of North America. This small mammal, often mistaken for a chipmunk, is noted for its striking appearance and vibrant behavior. Due to their abundance and curious nature, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are rewarding subjects for amateur and professional photographers alike.
Learning about animals, like the Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel, can significantly enhance wildlife photography skills by providing crucial insights into animal behavior, habitat and physical attributes. Understanding an animal’s habits can allow photographers to safely anticipate and capture unique and authentic moments. While knowledge of an animal’s habitat may help in selecting the best locations and times for shooting. Familiarity with physical attributes of specific species is also crucial in identifying and adding value and accuracy to the photographs.
If wildlife photography or simply wildlife viewing are of interest to you, then you’ve come to the right place! Together let’s delve into the intriguing world of the Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel and learn more about what makes it so special.
Physical Characteristics
The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is a small, sleek rodent with a body length of about 9 to 12 inches, including a tail that measures 3 to 5 inches. Weighing between 5 to 14 ounces, it has a compact and agile build. Its most distinguishing feature is the golden or reddish-brown mantle that extends over its head, neck, and shoulders, creating a vibrant contrast with the rest of its body. The tail is bushy but not as bushy as that of a tree squirrel.
Unlike chipmunks, which have stripes that run across their faces, the Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel has stripes that start at the shoulders and run down the sides of its back. These stripes are white-bordered by black lines, adding to its distinctive look. Its large, dark eyes and rounded ears give it a cute and alert appearance. Its strong hind legs are built for agility and curved sharp claws, well-suited for climbing, burrowing and foraging for food. Like other rodents, continuous growth of their incisors requires regular gnawing to keep the teeth at an appropriate length.
Habitat and Distribution
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are primarily found in the mountainous regions of western North America, including the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, and parts of the Cascade Range. Their preferred habitats include coniferous forests, rocky outcrops, meadows, and areas with loose soil suitable for burrowing. They are most commonly found at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 11,000 feet, where they take advantage of the cooler climates and abundant cover.
These squirrels are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, from dense forests to open alpine meadows. They are also known to inhabit areas near human settlements, such as campgrounds and hiking trails, where they often come into contact with people.
Behavior and Social Structure
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. They are solitary animals, with each squirrel maintaining its own burrow and territory. Their burrows can be quite complex, consisting of multiple entrances and tunnels that provide protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
These squirrels are known for their agility and acrobatics, often seen scampering over rocks and fallen logs with ease. They are also proficient climbers, able to ascend trees and shrubs in search of food. Their keen sense of sight, smell, and hearing helps them detect predators, which include hawks, foxes, weasels, and snakes.
During the winter months, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels enter a state of hibernation. They prepare for this period by accumulating body fat and storing food in their burrows. Hibernation typically lasts from late fall to early spring, during which time their metabolic rate slows significantly, allowing them to survive on their fat reserves.
Diet and Foraging
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are omnivorous, with a diet that varies seasonally. In the spring and early summer, they primarily consume fresh vegetation, including grasses, herbs, and leaves. As the season progresses, their diet shifts to include seeds, nuts, berries, and fruits. They also eat insects, small vertebrates, and carrion when available, providing a protein boost.
These squirrels are proficient foragers and will travel considerable distances in search of food. They have cheek pouches that allow them to carry food back to their burrows for storage. This behavior is particularly important as they prepare for hibernation, ensuring they have enough resources to last through the winter.
Role in the Ecosystem
The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel plays a vital role in its ecosystem. As seed dispersers, they contribute to the propagation of various plant species. By caching seeds and nuts in the ground, they help facilitate plant growth and forest regeneration.
The burrows created by golden-mantled ground squirrels provide habitat for other small animals, such as insects, reptiles, and other small mammals offering shelter and protection. Their burrowing activities also aerate the soil, promoting nutrient cycling and enhancing soil health.
Furthermore, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are a key prey species for many predators. Their presence supports the local food web, helping to maintain the balance of predator and prey populations. Their foraging habits can also influence the distribution and abundance of plant species, indirectly shaping the structure of their habitats.
Interactions with Humans
Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are often encountered by hikers, campers, and tourists in mountainous regions. Their bold and curious nature makes them a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts. However, their tendency to approach humans in search of food can lead to negative interactions. Feeding wildlife, intentionally or unintentionally, can cause these squirrels to become habituated to human presence, increasing the risk of conflicts and dependence on human-provided food.
To minimize these risks, it is important for visitors to follow guidelines for wildlife interactions, such as storing food securely and refraining from feeding animals. Educating the public about the importance of maintaining natural behaviors in wildlife is crucial for the conservation of these charming rodents.
Conservation Status
The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is currently not considered threatened, with stable populations across its range. However, habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities such as logging, urban development, and recreational use of natural areas can pose challenges to their long-term survival. Climate change also presents potential risks, as shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns can affect their hibernation cycles and food availability.
Conservation efforts focused on preserving natural habitats, promoting sustainable land-use practices, and educating the public about the ecological importance of ground squirrels are essential for ensuring their continued presence in the wild.
National Park Presence & Wildlife Photography
The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is thought to be present in 20 National Parks in varying degrees of abundance. If you visit one of the parks in hopes of seeing and photographing one of these little guys, keep a sharp eye and be patient. Wildlife is wild and unlike landscape photography, viewing specific types of wildlife can be hit or miss.
Always make sure to maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter and bring the proper photography equipment to make the most of any opportunities that present themselves. If you already own or want to own a professional grade mirrored camera like the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame Digital SLR, we recommend using a Canon RF100-400mm F5.6-8 is USM Black zoom lens for wildlife photography. If you have or are interested in a newer mirrorless model like the Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera, we recommend using a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L is II USM Lens for long distance shots.
Not quite ready to invest in traditional professional grade camera equipment, but want to enhance the quality of your cell phone photographs? Consider using a Moment 58mm Tele Lens for an improved zoom and be sure you have a compatible phone case to mount your new lens in. Since cell phones don’t have the same zoom distance and quality as traditional professional cameras, be extra mindful about your distance from wildlife when photographing them and don’t get too close.
Below is a list of National Parks where the Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel may be spotted:
| Park Name | Occurrence | Abundance |
| Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park | Present | Unknown |
| Bryce Canyon National Park | Present | Common |
| Crater Lake National Park | Present | Abundant |
| Death Valley National Park | Probably Present | |
| Glacier National Park | Present | Common |
| Great Basin National Park | Present | Common |
| Grand Canyon National Park | Present | Common |
| Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve | Present | Rare |
| Grand Teton National Park | Present | Common |
| Kings Canyon National Park | Present | Common |
| Lassen Volcanic National Park | Present | Common |
| Mesa Verde National Park | Present | Uncommon |
| Mount Rainier National Park | Present | Common |
| North Cascades National Park | Present | Common |
| Redwood National Park | Probably Present | |
| Rocky Mountain National Park | Present | Common |
| Sequoia National Park | Present | Common |
| Yellowstone National Park | Present | Common |
| Yosemite National Park | Present | Common |
| Zion National Park | Present | Uncommon |
Final Thoughts
Wildlife viewing and photography offer numerous benefits, both for individuals and for broader conservation efforts. Engaging in these activities fosters a deep connection with nature, promoting mental well-being and reducing stress through the tranquil experience of observing animals in their natural habitats. It also enhances physical health through outdoor exploration and boosts creativity and patience. On a broader scale, wildlife photography raises awareness about the beauty and diversity of animal species, inspiring conservation efforts and environmental stewardship.
The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is a remarkable example of nature’s resilience and adaptability. Its vibrant appearance, agile behavior, and ecological significance make it a fascinating subject of study and admiration. By understanding and appreciating the role of these small mammals in their ecosystems, we can contribute to their conservation and the preservation of the natural landscapes they inhabit. Whether encountered on a mountain trail or observed from afar, the Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel serves as a reminder of the intricate beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world.
Want more information about the amazing wildlife that call our National Parks home? Take a look at our National Park Wildlife page to explore the various parks and the animals in them. Planning on visiting a National Park in the near future? Be sure to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring.
Joyful Journeys!
Bonnie, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
Want to learn more about the various squirrel species in Northern America? Check out the links below!
- North American Tree Squirrels
- Welcome to the World of Squirrels (Welcome to the World Series)
- Margot gets an unexpected visit (Stories of Groundhogs, Squirrels, and Chipmunks)
- Groundhog Secrets: Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Woodchucks (Stories of Groundhogs, Squirrels, and Chipmunks)
- Squirrels of North America
- Those Darn Squirrels!
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