Appearance:
* Ground squirrels: Have a stocky build, relatively short tails, and often have a bushy tail tip. They can have various coat colors, but typically have a light underbelly.
* Chipmunks: Have a more slender build, a long, bushy tail with alternating black and white stripes, and distinctive black and white stripes running down their back and sides.
Size:
* Ground squirrels: Generally larger than chipmunks, ranging from 10-15 inches in length.
* Chipmunks: Smaller, measuring around 6-10 inches in length.
Behavior:
* Ground squirrels: Are more social and often live in colonies. They spend more time above ground and are often seen basking in the sun.
* Chipmunks: Are more solitary and shy. They are more agile and tend to spend more time in trees.
Diet:
* Ground squirrels: Have a varied diet that includes seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects. Some species are known to eat small animals.
* Chipmunks: Also have a varied diet, primarily consisting of seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects.
Hibernation:
* Ground squirrels: Typically hibernate during the winter months.
* Chipmunks: Go into a state of torpor during cold periods, but don't completely hibernate.
Vocalization:
* Ground squirrels: Have a variety of calls, including chirps, whistles, and barks.
* Chipmunks: Have a characteristic high-pitched chirp.
Here's a quick table to summarize the differences:
| Feature | Ground Squirrel | Chipmunk |
|---|---|---|
| Build | Stocky | Slender |
| Tail | Short, bushy tip | Long, bushy with stripes |
| Stripes | No | Black and white stripes |
| Size | Larger (10-15 inches) | Smaller (6-10 inches) |
| Social behavior | Social, often live in colonies | Solitary, shy |
| Hibernation | Complete hibernation | Torpor |
It's important to note that these are general characteristics. There are exceptions and variations within both species. However, these differences should help you distinguish between a ground squirrel and a chipmunk.