Mammal · GBIF taxon 8102496
Cascade Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel
Callospermophilus saturatusAlso known as Cascade Ground Squirrel
Cascade golden-mantled ground squirrels spend sunny alpine days foraging among rocky outcrops and subalpine meadows, storing energy for an eight-month winter hibernation. These industrious rodents dig extensive burrow systems under boulders and tree roots, communicating across territory boundaries with high-pitched alarm chirps. Their copper-red heads and bold side stripes make them an iconic sight for hikers along high-elevation Pacific Northwest trails.
DiurnalMammalMontane
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Conifer Seeds
- Subalpine Fungi
- Berries
Predators
- Red-tailed Hawks
- Coyotes
- Short-tailed Weasels
ThreatsClimate change affecting snowpack and vehicle collisions near mountain roads
HabitatsSubalpine forests, alpine meadows, and talus slopes
Life span4 to 7 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySciuridae
- SpeciesCallospermophilus saturatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of a sharp bite if cornered or handled; observe quietly from a distance.
Responsible observation
- Observe Quietly: Watch their foraging behavior near rocky clearings without making sudden movements.
- Do Not Feed: Refrain from feeding human snacks, which disrupt natural foraging habits and health.
Competitor (c) USFWS Pacific Southwest Region, photographer unknown, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Predator Buteo_jamaicensis_1.jpg: Alan Vernon derivative work: Berichard (talk) / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Judy Gallagher, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Judy Gallagher · cc-by-sa
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