Eastern Chipmunk

Tamia rayé ou Suisse

 Tamias striatus

• Description

  Chipmunks eat a wide selection of seeds, fruits and nuts. In the autumn they store food for winter. The scientific name Tamias, a Greek word meaning steward, was chosen because of this practise. Chipmunks have special, expandable pouches in their cheeks that they can stuff with food to bring back to their burrow. Chipmunks construct extensive burrow systems with one or more well concealed entrances.

• Habitat

  Deciduous or Hardwoods, Forest, Forest Edges, Mixed Woods, Suburban Forest

• Interesting Fact

  Chipmunks sleep in their burrows during winter. They become torpid (sleep) for varying periods but are not considered true hibernators, often waking up to eat and to stretch their legs below ground.