Family: Sciuridae, Squirrels view all from this family

Description Grayish or brownish above, with small, squarish, indistinct pale spots scattered on back. Belly whitish. Rather scantily haired tail similar to back, with black tip; buff below. Ears small. L 7 1/4–10" (185–253 mm); T 2 1/8–3 5/8" (55–92 mm); HF 1 1/8–1 3/8" (28–36 mm); Wt 3 1/2–4 3/8 oz (100–125 g).

Similar Species Mexican Ground Squirrel has spots in definite rows. Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel has stripes as well as spots.

Breeding Litter of 5–7 young born March–April and abroad by late April. Second litter born July–August or earlier.

Habitat Predominately dry, sandy areas, grassy areas, and pinewoods.

Range Southwestern South Dakota south to Arizona, New Mexico, and w Texas.

Discussion Active in the morning and the late afternoon, the Spotted Ground Squirrel often retires to its burrow in the heat of the day. In southern parts of its range it is active all year, but may hibernate in northern areas. Green vegetation and seeds are its primary foods, but it also eats grasshoppers and beetles.