European Ground Squirrel
Spermophilus citellus
The European ground squirrel lives in dry meadows, pastures, and steppe-like grasslands where it maintains burrow systems for shelter, hibernation, and escape. It feeds mainly on grasses, herbs, seeds, roots, and occasional insects, foraging above ground while staying near cover. Adults are alert, social rodents that give sharp alarm whistles when predators such as raptors, foxes, or mustelids appear. One notable fact is that this species hibernates for much of the year, sealing itself underground through the cold season.
- Type
- Burrow
- Conservation status
- EN
Growth chain
- European Ground Squirrel Pup
- European Ground Squirrel