The Mojave Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus mohavensis, is a species of ground squirrel found only in the western Mojave Desert, California. The squirrel was discovered in 1886 by Frank Stephens of San Diego (after whom the Stephens Soft-Haired Ground Squirrel is named. It is listed as a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act, but not under the federal Endangered Species Act. The IUCN lists this species as vulnerable.
The Moj...
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The Mojave Ground Squirrel, Spermophilus mohavensis, is a species of ground squirrel found only in the western Mojave Desert, California. The squirrel was discovered in 1886 by Frank Stephens of San Diego (after whom the Stephens Soft-Haired Ground Squirrel is named. It is listed as a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act, but not under the federal Endangered Species Act. The IUCN lists this species as vulnerable.
The Mojave ground squirrel measures about nine inches from nose to tail and feeds on leaves and seeds from February to July. Near the end of July, the squirrels begin a period of hibernation, but this may occur as early as April in drought years. Litters number between six to nine animals, and are born near the end of March each year. Litters do not survive if drought years force an early hibernation. Local populations can be wiped out if a drought lasts for multiple years.
The Squirrel inhabits the western Mojave Desert in portions of Inyo, Kern,...
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