Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel

The golden-mantled ground squirrel (Callospermophilus lateralis) is a small, stout rodent often mistaken for a chipmunk. It is common in Banff National Park at mid to high elevations, especially around rock piles, talus slopes, and trail edges.

Identification

About the size of a large chipmunk, with a golden-brown mantle across the shoulders and back, flanked by bold white and dark stripes along each side. The key distinction from chipmunks: golden-mantled ground squirrels lack stripes on their face. They are slightly larger and stockier than chipmunks, with a shorter, less bushy tail.

Habitat and diet

Found in subalpine and alpine terrain; rock walls, moraines, open meadows, and krummholz. They eat seeds, berries, fungi, and insects. Like the Columbian ground squirrel, they hibernate through winter, emerging in late spring.

Behaviour

Solitary and territorial. Often seen sitting upright on rocks, watching for predators. Quick to retreat into crevices when startled. They do not live in large colonies the way Columbian ground squirrels do.

Viewing

Common along the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail, around the Lake Agnes Tea House, and on most rocky trails above treeline. They are bold around people but should not be fed. Human food causes health problems and habituates them to approaching hikers.