There’s something magical about spotting an Eastern Gray Squirrel darting through the trees on a quiet summer morning, its bushy tail waving like a flag in the breeze.
Midwest Mammals
Midwest Mammals explores the native mammals found across forests, wetlands, grasslands, and rural landscapes throughout the region. From white-tailed deer and red foxes to raccoons, coyotes, squirrels, and beavers, these species shape local ecosystems year-round.
This section includes identification guides, habitat observations, and seasonal behavior notes such as breeding, migration patterns, and winter survival strategies. You’ll also find insights into how mammals interact with plants, waterways, and human environments across the Midwest.
Whether you’re observing wildlife in your backyard or exploring wooded trails, these posts offer practical information to help you better understand Midwest mammals and their role in the ecosystem.
Thirteen Lined Ground Squirrel
Thirteen Lined Ground Squirrel
The thirteen-lined ground squirrel, also known as the striped gopher, leopard ground squirrel, squinney, and as the leopard-spermophile in Audubon’s day, is a ground squirrel. It is widely distributed over grasslands and prairies of North America.