The California Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi) is seen running and climbing through parks, fields, and pastures and is widespread throughout San Diego County from the coast to mountain regions.

If not being fed by park-goers and passersby, California Ground Squirrels eat a broad spectrum of seeds, berries, leaves, and woody plants and have also been known to eat insects and grasshoppers.

Predators of the California Ground Squirrel include rattlesnakes, raccoons, badgers, foxes, weasels, and some birds of prey like eagles.

Did you know? The California Ground Squirrel may live in communal burrows with other ground squirrels but will excavate its own entrance.

PHOTO CREDIT: John Mitchell