Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel, Cold Spring Campground, Oregon
Copyright © 1996, Don Baccus (dhogaza@pacifier.com)
Copyright © 1995, Don Baccus
All images copyright © 1995, Don Baccus
These cute little "chipmunks", as many are prone to call them, are only common in areas with tree cover. They have a large range extending over much of the west. Ours are very handsome, with a rich golden-brown mantle and two broad black stripes bordering a prominent white stripe.
Golden-mantled ground squirrels that hang out around campgrounds become used to people, and their curiousity and willingness to be fed makes it easy to attract them.
I don't feed wild animals, but I've found a trick that works just as well. I toss small pebbles in an area where I'd like these little critters to pose, and they will often scurry over to investigate. This works with ducks which have become used to handouts, as well - not on refuges, but in city ponds where wild ducks often winter. It may sound a bit cruel, but I theorize that such critters are overeating on bread, candy, and other human food and can use a little exercise.
Page Springs Campground is a reliable place to find these attractive little rodents.