What comes to mind when you hear the word"ground squirrel"? Here in California, it may mean nothing more than the pesky little creature often seen scampering along the trails, rolling in the dirt or hanging out at picnic areas begging for food. Other than the fact that "we should not feed wildlife" and are the cause of this behavior; these "mini engineers" are really quite amazing, not to mention incredibly cute!
A keystone species, California ground squirrels (Otospermophilus beecheyi) are found in almost all regions of California. Most ground squirrels excavate their own burrows which can cover many hundreds of feet underground. These burrows form a complex system of tunnels and chambers for their nurseries, food storage, or sleeping and with multiple entrances for speedy escapes.
This excavation process does more than create their cozy underground homes. It loosens and aerates the soil, bringing seeds to the surface, contributing to native plant growth and diversity. It may be baking hot above ground, but the"cool" underground burrows also provide homes for a wide array of other species including beetles, amphibians, burrowing owls, foxes and even coyotes! Other creatures will raid the burrows in search of the squirrel's cache of nuts and seeds, although they may become dinner themselves as they are predated on badgers, foxes, raptors and snakes. A tough life to say the least!
California ground squirrels have beautiful, mottled brown, grey and white fur, semi-bushy tails and a distinctive white ring around the eyes. Baby squirrels (kittens) leave their burrows at 5 to 8 weeks. At first the youngsters will play and feed very near the burrow entrance under the mother’s close and attentive supervision (as seen in the above video), but will also begin burrowing as soon as 8 weeks.
What might be viewed as a nuisance or pest to some, is in fact an essential part of an intricate world below ground. Unlike many other species which have been severely impacted by human development, California ground squirrels have managed to survive, making life possible for innumerable plants and other creatures. So next time you are out and about and happen to come across one of these mini engineers, stop and thank them for a job well done!