California Ground Squirrel
Scientific Name: Otospermophilus beecheyi
The California Ground Squirrel, Otospermophilus beecheyi, is a common sight in open habitats throughout Huntington Beach, California. These small rodents have sandy-brown fur with lighter underparts and a distinctive white stripe on each side of their body. Ground squirrels are active year-round, though they may hibernate during the coldest months. They construct elaborate burrow systems in sandy soil, where they seek shelter and store food. Ground squirrels feed on a variety of plant material, seeds, and occasionally insects.
