Credit: Chad Horwedel License
About the Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel (TLGS) is a long name in itself, but try saying Spermophilus tridecemlineatus! That's its scientific name. TLGS have been found all over central North America, but have been spotted less and less over the years in Indiana. Their habitats include open, short-grass areas with well-drained sandy soils. Golf courses, cemeteries, parks, and mowed lawns are some of the most common locations for TLGS sightings. As you can see, they are very easily recognizable by the pattern of lines and dots down their back.
SO WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Well that's why we need YOU! While Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrels used to be common in Indiana, these mammals have been sighted less often by state biologists in recent years. We have created a survey for Indiana residents, so we can figure out just where these critters have gone. If you've spotted a Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel, please click the link below to take our short survey. The survey will be open until January 1, 2018.
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Credit: Alex Galt/USFWS. Click image for licensing.