Shadow Chipmunk

activity

Activity patterns. The Shadow Chipmunk is diurnal, very active, and hibernates from late November to mid-March. It is one of the most arboreal species of the group. It is sympatric with several other Tamias species, such the Yellow-pine Chipmunk (7. amoenus), the Alpine Chipmunk (7. alpinus), the Least Chipmunk (7. merriami), the Sonoma Chipmunk (7. sonomae), the Long-eared Chipmunk, the Uinta Chipmunk (7. um- brinus) and the Lodgepole Chipmunk (7. speciosus), but it is believed to be ecologically isolated from these species due to its truffle-based diet and arboreal behavior.

Sciuridae

biology_ecology

Habitat. Primary forests with closed canopy and dense brushy understory. The Shadow Chipmunk inhabits the Canadian and upper transition life zones, such as the mostly undisturbed montane conifer forests of the Sierra Nevada, at elevations of ¢. 1200 - 1800 m, and chaparral slopes.

Sciuridae

biology_ecology

Movements, Home range and Social organization. Home range is estimated to be smaller than 3 - 5 ha, and to vary with food availability. The “ chip ” vocalizations have three to five syllables per chip, and occur at an intermediate frequency compared to the vocalization frequency of other chipmunks, such as the Yellow-cheeked Chipmunk and the Siskiyou Chipmunk (7. siskiyou).

Sciuridae

breeding

Breeding. Mating season occurs around April, and litter sizes of usually 1 - 5, with young being weaned at late June.

Sciuridae