Colors of My Heart

​​​■ California Ground Squirrel

Yosemite National Park is home to several species of squirrels such as California Ground Squirrel, Lodgepole Chipmunk and Douglas Squirrel, each with unique characteristics and behaviors. These photos are California Ground Squirrel.

​​The California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) is a species of ground squirrel native to the western United States, particularly along the California coast. It is commonly found in California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, and Arizona, inhabiting dry grasslands, rolling hills, forest edges, and even urban parks.​​

​​It typically measures between 30 and 50 cm (including its tail) and weighs around 280 to 750 grams. Its fur is primarily gray or brown, often with white speckles on its back. While its tail is bushy, it is slightly shorter than that of tree squirrels. Being diurnal, it is most active in the morning and late afternoon. It digs burrows in the ground, forming colonies. Whether it hibernates depends on the altitude of its habitat—those in lowland areas remain active year-round, while those in higher elevations may hibernate during winter.​​

​​As an omnivore, the California ground squirrel primarily feeds on seeds, fruits, nuts, leaves, and flowers, but it also consumes insects, bird eggs, and even small animal carcasses, making it an important part of the ecosystem. However, it has several natural predators, including birds of prey such as falcons, hawks, and owls, as well as mammals like coyotes, foxes, bobcats, and snakes, particularly rattlesnakes.​​

​​One of its most fascinating defensive behaviors is its response to rattlesnakes. Studies have shown that it can heat up and fluff its tail to intimidate the snake. Additionally, when sensing danger, it emits a high-pitched “chip, chip” sound to warn its colony. Due to its adaptability, it is commonly seen in urban parks, and some individuals even appear quite friendly, making it one of the easiest squirrel species to observe.​​

​​These squirrels are frequently spotted in both California’s natural landscapes and city parks. With their charming appearance and intriguing behaviors, they have become a favorite among many people. Don’t you think their backs look a bit like those of women? (Haha!)

​​While Yosemite’s squirrels are lively and fun to watch, it’s important to respect them as wild animals and observe them from a safe distance.



Nikon D40X / AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 55-200mm F4.5-5.6G ED / ISO200 / F8 / 1/200s / ±0.0



Nikon D40X / AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 55-200mm F4.5-5.6G ED / ISO200 / F8 / 1/200s / ±0.0



Nikon D40X / AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 55-200mm F4.5-5.6G ED / ISO200 / F8 / 1/200s / ±0.0



Nikon D40X / AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 55-200mm F4.5-5.6G ED / ISO180 / F10 / 1/250s / ±0.0



Nikon D40X / AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 55-200mm F4.5-5.6G ED / ISO800 / F5.3 / 1/320s / ±0.0​


■ Taken on 31st Jul 2007 by following equipment.

Nikon D40X

【中古】【1年保証】【美品】Nikon D40X ボディ 価格：36,700円（税込、送料無料) (2025/3/1時点) 楽天で購入

【中古】ニコン Nikon 望遠ズームレンズ AF-S DX VR Zoom Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF-ED ニコンDXフォーマット専用 価格：17,800円（税込、送料無料) (2025/3/1時点) 楽天で購入

■ Travel Guide

Yosemite National Park: Your Complete Hiking Guide YOSEMITE NATL PARK REV/E 6/E [ Elizabeth Wenk ] 価格：5,544円（税込、送料無料) (2025/3/1時点) 楽天で購入

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