Alpine Chipmunk

activity

Activity patterns. The Alpine Chipmunk is diurnal, and spends a considerable amount of time in rocky areas, which may allow a quick and efficient escape from predators. It is reported to enter hibernacula in late October and emerge in June, when its habitat is still covered in snow. This early emergence allows time for territorial establishment and subsequent foraging during the short growing season in its habitat.

Sciuridae

biology_ecology

Habitat. Elevations of ¢. 2300 - 3900 m, primarily in alpine biotic zone but also Hudsonian and Canadian biotic zones. The Alpine Chipmunk is a highly insular species, whose prevalence and occurrence probably depends on the physical structure ofits habitat, which consists primarily of meadows, talus slopes, boulderfields, open stands of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta, Pinaceae), and small patches of whitebark pine (P. albicaulis). Habitat is generally xeric, as it is exposed to full sun, but maximum daily temperatures do not exceed 20 ° C.

Sciuridae

biology_ecology

Movements, Home range and Social organization. Distribution of the Alpine Chipmunk overlaps with those of five other Tamas species, but only the Lodgepole Chipmunk is fully sympatric with the Alpine Chipmunk. It is territorial, and performs variable aggressive displays toward conspecifics, including vertical tail displays and vocalizations described as high-pitched calls, lower-pitched “ chucks ” and “ chips. ” Distribution of the Alpine Chipmunk is limited at lower elevations by territorial exclusion by the larger Lodgepole Chipmunk, which is reported to be more aggressive, more successful in territorial disputes in the wild, and more efficient at foraging in dense vegetation where the two species are sympatric. However, the Alpine Chipmunk in captivity appears more aggressive and dominant over the Lodgepole Chipmunk, which suggests that the outcome of aggressive encounters in the wild is partially influenced by habitat structure.

Sciuridae

breeding

Breeding. Breeding occurs in early summer, with young becoming active by late July to early August, and reaching adult size by October. Litter size appears to be 4 - 5 young.

Sciuridae