The New Student's Reference Work/Chipmunk
Chipmunk, a very wide-awake, sun-loving small squirrel that lives on the ground. It is sometimes called the striped squirrel, the black and light-colored stripes on its gray-brown fur being very prominent; a narrow black stripe on the middle of the back, on each side two black stripes separated by a stripe of light buff. It has roomy cheek-pouches in which it carries surprising quantities of nuts and grain to its nest. When hard beset, it will climb a tree for a short distance; but as it here is an easy prey for its enemies, it shows decided preference for a less exposed retreat.
CHIPMUNK
Its worst enemies are the birds of prey and the mink, fox and weasel, the last following it into farthest recesses of its burrow. In time of peace chipmunks chirrup together most sociably, and out in the light and air of which they are so fond hold very animated conversations, their chorus sometimes almost a song. The burrow is kept most artfully concealed; no track leading to it. First a perpendicular tunnel is sunk down several feet, next a horizontal passage made for a few yards, then a slight ascent brings to the chamber which is carpeted with grass. From the chamber the ground surface may be reached by a second route, this opening a considerable distance from the first. In the cosy nest well below the frost-line quantities of nuts and grain are stored for winter use, supplies being carried in the cheek-pouches. In the west they work considerable damage and are regarded as nuisances. In addition to nuts and grain, they eat considerable fruit, and are very fond of berries. They are distributed generally in this country, several species being found here. The chipmunk somewhat resembles the little creature popularly called striped gopher, but should not be confused with it. See Hornaday: American Natural History; Stone and Cram: American Animals.