Uinta Chipmunk

activity

Activity patterns. The Uinta Chipmunk is terrestrial, but it climbs better than most chipmunks and frequently forages in trees and bushes. It is diurnal, and active yearround if the weatheris favorable. In colder regions, or during severe winters it remains in the nest and may enter torpor for short periods, but probably does not hibernate. Overwinter survival can be extremely low, and local extinctions and recolonizations are common.

Sciuridae

biology_ecology

Habitat. Coniferous forests. The Uinta Chipmunk is found mostly in areas dominated by species of Pinaceae, like pine (Pinus), spruce (Picea), and fir (Abies).

Sciuridae

biology_ecology

Movements, Home range and Social organization. The Uinta Chipmunk is territorial, aggressively defending its territory against other chipmunk species. It is also very vocal and has a loud high-pitched alarm call. When threatened, it seeks cover under bushes and trees. Estimated population density varies 0 - 7 - 17 ind / ha.

Sciuridae

breeding

Breeding. Breeding season begins in spring, with some geographical variation. In Colorado, pregnant females can be found in May and in Arizona, as late as June. Females give birth inside nests built in burrows, tree cavities, or in arboreal nests built by other species. Gestation is ¢. 30 days and litter size is 3 - 5 young. Females produce onelitter per year.

Sciuridae