Fauna
Mammal · GBIF taxon 2437438

Eastern Chipmunk

Tamias striatus

Also known as Chipping Squirrel, Striped Ground Squirrel

Eastern chipmunks spend their daylight hours scampering across forest floors and stone walls, foraging for seeds, nuts, and berries to carry back in their expansive cheek pouches. They dig intricate underground burrow systems featuring hidden entrance holes, brood chambers, and dedicated food storage rooms. During cold winters, individuals enter periods of torpor, waking every few days to consume cached supplies rather than hibernating continuously.

DiurnalBurrowingForest Dweller
Eastern Chipmunk reference1 / 7
Licensed referenceRhododendrites / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Acorns
  • Beechnuts
  • Insects
Predators
  • Red-tailed Hawk
  • Domestic Cat
  • Eastern Rat Snake
ThreatsPredation by outdoor pets, habitat fragmentation, vehicle strikes
HabitatsDeciduous forests, open woodlands, forest edges, suburban gardens
Life span2–5 years
Classification
  1. OrderRodentia
  2. FamilySciuridae
  3. GenusTamias
  4. SpeciesTamias striatus
Range & activity
Native
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Capable of giving a sharp defensive bite if trapped or handled; enjoy observing them from a safe distance.
Responsible observation
  • Look near cover: Scan fallen logs, rock piles, and woodpiles where chipmunks prefer to forage and hide.
  • Listen for vocalizations: Listen for high-pitched 'chip' or 'chuck' calls used to mark territory or sound alarms.
  • Keep pets leashed: Keep domestic dogs and cats managed to avoid disturbing chipmunk burrows and foraging routes.
Related species
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