Eastern Chipmunk

Tamias striatus

The eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus) is a small ground-dwelling squirrel of eastern North America, common in deciduous woods, stone walls, brushy edges, parks, and suburban yards. It is recognized by reddish-brown fur, pale and dark stripes along the back and face, a short upright tail, and expandable cheek pouches used to carry seeds. Although it climbs well, it spends much of its life around a burrow system with separate chambers for sleeping, waste, and stored food. Its diet is mostly nuts, seeds, berries, fungi, and insects, and its caching behavior helps move acorns and other tree seeds through the forest floor.

People most often encounter eastern chipmunks as native backyard wildlife rather than pets. In many places, keeping one requires wildlife permits, and injured animals are best handled by licensed rehabilitators. Around homes they may raid bird feeders or dig near patios, but sealing food sources and protecting plantings usually works better than trapping. Educational facilities that house chipmunks need deep substrate, nest boxes, cover, chewing material, and a seasonal plan that allows normal food hoarding and winter torpor.