About California Ground Squirrels
- Scientific Name: Otospermophilus beecheyi.
- Common Name: Beechey ground squirrel.
- Habitat: Predominantly found in the western United States, including regions like Briones Regional Park in California.
- Physical Characteristics:
- Mottled fur with shades of grey, light and dark brown, and white.
- Typically live up to 6 years in the wild.
- Predators: Commonly preyed upon by rattlesnakes, eagles, raccoons, foxes, badgers, and weasels.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern.
- CITES: No special status.
Key Study Findings on Squirrels’ Behavior
- Research Origins: Led by the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the University of California, Davis, as part of the Long-term Behavioral Ecology of California Ground Squirrels Project.
- Observation:
- Squirrels previously believed to be herbivores are now identified as opportunistic omnivores.
- They actively hunt, kill, and eat voles (small rodents).
- Out of 74 observed interactions, 42% involved active hunting behaviour.
Q1. What is the IUCN Red List?
The IUCN Red List is a comprehensive inventory evaluating the conservation status of plant and animal species. It categorizes species into groups like Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Vulnerable, aiding global efforts to protect biodiversity.
Source: DOE
Last updated on Dec 26, 2024
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