Life History and Ecology of the Chipmunk, Eutamias amoenus, in Eastern Washington

Open Access : 9780472913718, 49 pages, December 1969
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Description

Life History and Ecology of the Chipmunk provides a comprehensive study of the chipmunk's behavior, life history, and ecology in the pine forests of eastern Washington. The study focuses on various aspects including reproduction, feeding habits, hibernation, weights, scat, parasitic infestations, longevity, mortality, and general behavior of the chipmunk. Detailed observations were made on chipmunk dens and nests, food preferences, and interspecies interactions, particularly with ground squirrels. The introduction emphasizes the suitability of the chipmunk for field studies due to its abundance and diurnal habits. The fieldwork, conducted primarily in the Rocky Flat area, utilized live traps set in grids and involved marking individual chipmunks for identification. The breeding cycle was meticulously documented, noting that mating likely occurs in April with births in May. Behavioral observations were supplemented by captive studies, revealing insights into the growth, development, and social interactions of young chipmunks. Illustrated with figures and plates, this work is a valuable resource for understanding the ecological dynamics and life history of Eutamias amoenus in its natural habitat.