Hardingjævle

Hardingjævle, also known as the Harding's ground squirrel, is a species of rodent in the family Sciuridae. It is found in the western United States and northern Mexico. The Hardingjævle is named after naturalist William Harding, who first described the species in 1858.

This small mammal has a body length of about 15-20 centimeters, including a tail that is typically 3-5 centimeters long. It has a stocky build, with a bushy tail that is often held upright. The fur is typically grayish-brown on the back and lighter on the underside, with a distinctive white patch on the throat.

Hardingjævle are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plants, including grasses, forbs, and shrubs. They are also known to consume small insects and other invertebrates. The Hardingjævle is a burrowing species, digging extensive tunnel systems in the ground. These tunnels can be up to 10 meters long and are used for shelter, hibernation, and raising young.

The Hardingjævle is a solitary animal, except during the breeding season. It is active during the day, but may also be active at night, especially during the winter months. The species is not currently considered threatened, but habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities may pose a risk in the future.