Wildlife

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our office is open 9AM-5PM M-F
703-246-6868 TTY 711
4500 West Ox Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Dr. Katherine Edwards
Wildlife Management Specialist

Chipmunks

Appearance

Fisher's easter chipmunks (Tamias striatus fisheri) are 8 to 10 inches long (nose to tail) and weigh 2 to 4.5 ounces. Body color ranges from reddish-brown to reddish-yellow with distinct facial stripe and prominent longitudinal black, white and wide gray stripes.

Behavior

Chipmunks have 1 to 2 litters a year and 4 to 5 young per litter. Chipmunks hibernate in underground burrows from November to February. Chipmunks store food to eat during winter hibernation. Chipmunks are diurnal with peak activity mid-morning and afternoon.

Diet

Chipmunks are primarily herbivores. A modified diet can include nuts, seeds, fruits, plants and insects.

Habitat

Chipmunks inhabit dense forest, open woodlands and grasslands, rural, suburban and urban areas of Fairfax County

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