MOHAVE GROUND SQUIRREL
MOHAVE GROUND SQUIRREL
Xerospermophilus mohavensis
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We're not building just some wildlife park, we're building a lasting legacy for the Antelope Valley!
Meet One of the Mojave Desert’s Rarest Residents!
Most people have never heard of the Mohave Ground Squirrel, but this small desert mammal is one of California’s most unique wildlife species, and it’s found only in portions of the western Mojave Desert, including areas surrounding the Antelope Valley!
Unlike many squirrels that climb trees, the Mohave Ground Squirrel spends much of its time on the ground, living in underground burrows where it stays cool during the hottest months of the year. It feeds on native plants, seeds, flowers, and insects while helping disperse seeds that contribute to a healthy desert ecosystem.
Because habitat loss and environmental changes have reduced its range, the Mohave Ground Squirrel is listed as a threatened species in California. Protecting native habitats helps ensure this remarkable little mammal remains part of our desert for future generations.
Did You Know? The Mojave ground squirrel is endemic to the Mojave Desert of California, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. It is a threatened species under California law due to habitat loss and fragmentation, making it an important species for conservation education in the Antelope Valley region.
Junior Ranger Challenge:
If you ever see a ground squirrel in the wild, remember to observe it from a distance and never feed wildlife. Every animal plays an important role in keeping our desert healthy!
Did You Know?
The Mohave Ground Squirrel can spend long periods underground during dry years, conserving energy until food becomes more abundant.
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