Harris's antelope squirrel
A species of Antelope squirrels Scientific name : Ammospermophilus harrisii Genus : Antelope squirrels
Harris's antelope squirrel, A species of Antelope squirrels
Scientific name: Ammospermophilus harrisii
Genus: Antelope squirrels
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Greg Schechter , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Harris antelope (Ammospermophilus harrisii) is a species of antelope (Ammospermophilus). It occurs in southern Arizona, in the adjacent area of New Mexico and in the north of the Mexican state of Sonora.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Harris's antelope squirrel predominantly feeds on seeds of desert plant species. It also consumes vegetative parts, insects, and even scavenges animal matter during periods of food scarcity.
Appearance
Harris's antelope squirrel is a small-sized rodent with a slender body shape, covered in coarse fur. Domineering hues of sandy-brown blend seamlessly into lighter undertones on the belly area. It doesn't have any particularly unique markings, but its most notable feature is its bushy tail, somewhat paralleling the coloration of its body. No significant differences based on age, gender, or subspecies have been reported. Its overall appearance mimics the dry desert environment where it is typically found.
Behavior
Harris's antelope squirrel is primarily diurnal and exhibits a solitary lifestyle, interacting minimally with others except during the breeding season. It is known for vigorous digging behavior, creating complex burrowing systems in its arid habitat for shelter and hibernation. Marking its territory using scent glands, harris's antelope squirrel spends much of its day foraging for seeds and insects.
Photo By Greg Schechter , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Gnawing mammals Family
Squirrels Genus
Antelope squirrels Species
Harris's antelope squirrel