Chipmunks are small, ground-dwelling squirrels that are typically 5-6 inches long, with a tail 3-4 inches long. They have 2 tan and 5 blackish stripes lengthwise down their back, and 2 tan and 2 brownish stripes on each side of their face. They do not completely hibernate throughout the winter, but will rely upon their cache of food stored throughout the summer and may sometimes be seen on warm, sunny days throughout the winter. They typically emerge from hibernation in early March.
Distribution: Chipmunks are found statewide in a variety of habitats. They are especially common in urban areas where bird feeders are found.
Reproduction: Chipmunks breed twice a year and will have 2-5 young in each litter, one born in late spring and one in late summer. Four to five young are born in April or May. Young will appear outside their den when they are only 4-6 weeks old and will start to find their own territory when they are just 6-8 weeks old.
Food Habits: Chipmunks eat a variety of foods, primarily grains, nuts, berries, seeds, mushrooms, insects, and even carrion. They regularly climb trees in the fall to find nuts, fruits, and seeds. They will also eat bird eggs and young birds when available. Chipmunks cache or store food in their dens by stuffing it into their cheeks.
