A preliminary study of the Barrow ground squirrel, Citellus parryi barrowensis
Mayer WV. 1953. A preliminary study of the Barrow ground squirrel, Citellus parryi barrowensis. Journal of Mammalogy. 34(3):334-345
The data for this preliminary life history study of the Barrow ground squirrel, Citellus parryi barrowensis, were gathered at Point Barrow, Alaska, within Naval Petroleum Reserve No. 4, from July 12, 1951, to August 28, 1951. Twelve positive sites of the squirrels' occurrence, located from almost sea level to an altitude of 2800 feet are recorded. Their range of distribution is definitely extended 150 miles east of the limits set by Howell (loc. cit.). Within the range the squirrels' habitat requirements of a relatively low permafrost table and good drainage restrict their burrow systems to river banks, hillocks and similar areas raised above the coastal plain. The presence of numerous bodies of water on the tundra does not confine the animals to the vicinity of the burrows, for they not only are capable of swimming but will take to water of their own free will. They have been observed to travel over 1500 yards from their home burrows. No surface territoriality was observed among the squirrels, but they have pronounced burrow preferences. Complete abstract too long to reproduce.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Mayer, William
- Units
- ARCN , BELA , CAKR , GAAR , KOVA , NOAT
- Keywords
- Abundance, Arctic, arctic ground squirrel, Density, Distribution, Habitat Use, Mammals, North Slope, Small Mammals, Spermophilus parryii, Tundra