Thirteenlined

Thirteenlined is a common name used for organisms featuring thirteen longitudinal stripes, most notably the thirteen-lined ground squirrel, Ictidomys tridecemlineatus. The species is a small rodent in the family Sciuridae and is native to North America. It was previously classified in the genus Spermophilus.

Description: Adults measure about 190-270 mm in length, including the tail. Their fur is yellowish-brown with a pattern of thirteen light stripes along the back and sides, separated by darker bands; underparts are pale. The tail is relatively short, and the overall pattern provides camouflage in grassy habitats.

Distribution and habitat: The thirteenlined ground squirrel is found across central North America—from southern Canada through the central United States to northern Mexico. It inhabits prairies, open woodlands, pastures, and agricultural margins with sandy, friable soils suitable for burrow construction.

Behavior and ecology: Primarily diurnal; individuals can be social at burrow entrances but maintain personal territories. They dig burrows with multiple exits and hibernate through winter in cooler parts of their range. They are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, grasses, buds, roots, and insects. Predators include hawks, coyotes, foxes, and snakes.

Reproduction: Breeding occurs in spring after emergence. Gestation is about 28-32 days, and litters typically contain 5-11 young. Juveniles are weaned after about 25-30 days and become independent within a few weeks.

Conservation and terminology: The species is listed as Least Concern due to wide distribution and stable populations, though local declines occur from habitat loss and pest-control practices. The term thirteenlined is used principally to describe this species but may refer to other organisms that exhibit thirteen stripes.