28 



RODENTS OF IOWA 



Habits, Distribution, Etc. — The gray chipmunk is more terres- 

 trial in its habits than any of the species of squirrels which have 

 been discussed and it is usually found in rocky, wooded areas 

 grown up in underbrush and about old logs or buildings which 

 are surrounded by growths of bushes and weeds to offer con- 

 cealment. Sometimes it ascends large trees, but for the most part 

 it contents itself with climbing' about logs, rocks, and fences and 

 in this art it is very expert. During the summer it industriously 

 stores up grain, seeds, nuts, etc., for food during the winter. 

 These materials are carried to its home, which is usually an under- 

 ^ound burrow among loose rocks or under a decaying log .or 

 stump. In addition to these things it subsists to some extent 

 upon young mice, birds, and small snakes. 



While the gray chipmunk docs not truly hibernate during the 

 winter, it remains quiescent for longer or shorter periods of time 

 during severe weather; when the weather moderates, even though 

 there is snow on the ground, it comes forth and disports itself 

 in its accustomed manner. In many cases, however, on the ap- 

 proach of cold weather it tnters its burrow not to reappear until 



Fig. 5. — Map showing locality records of — 



1. Gray Cliipmunk ( Tainias striatus griseus). 



the signs of early spring have tempered the surroundings. These 

 little animals afford interesting diversion for the observer if they 

 are alloMed to come about buildings, and the writer has never 



