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Group Name:

Mammals/Rodents-Squirrel Family

Habitat:

Forests and forest edges, sagebrush, and near campgrounds. They are still found occasionally in urban, forested habitats.

Traits:

1. They are small, alert ground-dwelling squirrels.

2. Five dark & four pale or beige stripes run the length of the back.

3. Several white & dark stripes alternate on the side of the pointed face.

4. They live mainly on the ground but may climb trees & shrubs to find food.

5. Their incisors (front teeth) aid in gnawing through the seeds, fruit, and nuts that they eat. They may also feed on insects & other small invertebrates.

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