July 8, 1805, at Great Falls, Cascade County, Montana

Brownish, with 13 alternating brown and whitish longitudinal lines (sometimes partially broken into spots) on back and sides. Rows of whitish spots within dark lines.

Originally shortgrass prairies; now along roadsides, in yards, cemeteries, golf courses, and wherever grass is kept mowed.

Much of central North America, from southeastern Alberta and southern Manitoba south to northern New Mexico, northern and southeastern Texas, and east through Minnesota and Missouri to Michigan and Ohio.

This ground squirrel enters its nest in October, rolls into a stiff ball, and decreases its respiration to one breath about every five minutes.

Species information from enature.com