The russet ground squirrel (Spermophilus major ) is known in the literature as a numerous widespread species. In recent decades, decline its abundance was found some parts of range. We have assessed condition this species most distribution area based on our observations and interviews with local people. Spatial, landscape vegetation cover parameters S. settlements been studied. research results...

BACKGROUND Golden-mantled ground squirrels (S. lateralis) are anorexic during the winter and survive by exploiting hibernation to reduce energetic demands. The liver normally plays a critical role in fueling and regulating metabolism and one might expect significant changes in hepatobiliary function with hibernation. We analyzed bile collected from animals in summer, animals in winter that were...

Understanding the impacts of livestock grazing on wildlands is important for making appropriate ecosystem management decisions. Using livestock exclosures, we examined the effects of moderate cattle grazing on the abundance of California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyii Richardson) and the spatial distribution of active burrows within their colonies in grassland and blue oak (Quercus do...