Richardson's ground squirrel
A species of Ground squirrels, Also known as Flickertail, Gophers Scientific name : Urocitellus richardsonii Genus : Ground squirrels
Richardson's ground squirrel, A species of Ground squirrels
Also known as:
Flickertail, Gophers
Scientific name: Urocitellus richardsonii
Genus: Ground squirrels
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Kameron Perensovich , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Typical adults are about 30 centimetres (12 in) long. Weights vary greatly with time of year and with location: at emergence from hibernation the squirrels weigh between 200 and 275 g (0.441–0.606 lb) for females and between 350 and 450 g (0.77–0.99 lb) for males. But by the time they hibernate again, their weight may have risen to nearly 750 grams (1.65 lb). Males are slightly larger and heavier than females on average. They are dark brown on the upper side and tan underneath. The tail is shorter and less bushy than in other ground squirrels, and the external ears are so short as to look more like holes in the animal's head. Behavior is more like that of a prairie dog than a typical ground squirrel. The tail is constantly trembling, so the animal is sometimes called the "flickertail". Males have an average life expectancy of 3 years, while females average 4 years. However, in captivity some individuals may live for 5 to 7 years. 
General Info
Lifespan
6-8 years
Diet
Richardson's ground squirrel is predominantly herbivorous, devoutly consuming leaves, shoots and stems. Its diet is particularly varied in seasons, gravitating towards seeds, flowers, and fruits in summer. In winter, richardson's ground squirrel relies heavily on stored roots and tubers.
Appearance
Richardson's ground squirrel is a small, robust rodent with a cylindrical body profile and densely furred tail. The overall fur color is brownish-gray, with paler underparts. Its cheeks, sides, and legs exhibit yellowish hues. Richardson's ground squirrel has no horns, wings, or extraordinary markings. Its gender and age do not make significant differences in its appearance.
Behavior
Richardson's ground squirrel exhibit diurnal, social behaviors, living in extensive burrow systems or 'towns'. They forage for grasses, herbs, and seeds, often standing erect on hind legs to survey surroundings. Noted for warning signals (sharp whistles) to alert the colony of predators. Richardson's ground squirrel hibernate during winter, indicative of adaptation to colder environments.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Gnawing mammals Family
Squirrels Genus
Ground squirrels Species
Richardson's ground squirrel 
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