Arctic ground squirrel
A species of Ground squirrels Scientific name : Urocitellus parryii Genus : Ground squirrels
Arctic ground squirrel, A species of Ground squirrels
Scientific name: Urocitellus parryii
Genus: Ground squirrels
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bering Land Bridge National Preserve , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Arctic ground squirrel has a beige and tan coat with a white-spotted back. This squirrel has a short face, small ears, a dark tail and white markings around its eyes. Arctic ground squirrels undergo a coat change from summer to winter. Summer coats include red/yellow colourations along the cheeks and sides of the animal. In fall, these red patches are replaced with silvery fur. The average length of an Arctic ground squirrel is approximately 39 cm (15 in). Since Arctic ground squirrels undergo drastic seasonal changes in body mass, it is difficult to give an average mass, but for adult females it is close to 750 g (26 oz), however, males generally are around 100 g (3.5 oz) heavier than females. 
General Info
Lifespan
3-6 years
Diet
Arctic ground squirrel's diet consists primarily of plants, with a preference for sedges and grasses. During the summer, it also consumes flowers, seeds, berries, and insects, enabling a diverse and nutrient-rich intake.
Appearance
Arctic ground squirrel is a small to medium-sized rodent with a cylindrical body and dense, short fur. Its primary coloration is a mix of gray, brown, and white which provides effective camouflage. The species exhibits a distinctive white rump patch and males are typically larger than females. During the winter months, arctic ground squirrel's fur becomes thicker and whiter to aid survival in freezing environments.
Behavior
Arctic ground squirrel is a social, diurnal animal, often found in large colonies. It demonstrates distinct behaviors like alarm calling, scent-marking for territorial boundaries, and complex burrow systems for nesting. A significant part of its day involves foraging, with hibernation being its key survival strategy during harsh winters.
Photo By Bering Land Bridge National Preserve , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Gnawing mammals Family
Squirrels Genus
Ground squirrels Species
Arctic ground squirrel 
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