A medium-sized chipmunk endemic to specific California mountain ranges. Distinguished from other chipmunks by subtle features.

Also called: Sierra Nevada Chipmunk

Native status: Native to Sierra Nevada

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 18–22 cm; tail 9–14 cm
Weight70–150 g
LifespanWild 4–6 years
OrderRodentia
FamilySciuridae

§ Encyclopedia

The yellow-cheeked chipmunk, also known as the redwood chipmunk, is a species of rodent in the squirrel family, Sciuridae. It is endemic to areas near the coast of northern California in the United States where it inhabits coastal coniferous forest.

Source: Wikipedia — Yellow-cheeked chipmunk Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium chipmunk with reddish stripes.

Similar species. Yellow-pine Chipmunk (related; broader range).

Voice. Sharp chips.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Conifer seeds, fungi, insects.

Behavior. Mount Rose Chipmunk — narrow Sierra Nevada subspecies of yellow-pine chipmunk.

§ Range

Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains

§ Habitat

Coniferous mountain forests

§ Threats

Climate-driven habitat changes.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the mount rose chipmunk is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support mountain forest conservation.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • American Society of Mammalogists
  • IUCN Red List 2016