© Jasper Shide / CC0Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
The thirteen-lined ground squirrel is a North American prairie squirrel named for the thirteen alternating light and dark stripes, dotted with rows of spots, that run down its back. It's a diurnal, solitary animal with a calm, watchful temperament that suits keepers who enjoy observing a single animal closely. Its defining trait is true hibernation: this species sleeps for more than half the year, from August to March, showing a completely different rhythm in its active and dormant seasons. Because it digs enthusiastically, its enclosure needs deep substrate and plenty of floor space to feel like home.
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Apply as a breederAbout Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
The thirteen-lined ground squirrel is a North American prairie species known for its striped back and long winter hibernation — here's what to know before keeping one.
7 things to know before welcoming a Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
1Deep Substrate, Roomy Cage
This species digs enthusiastically, so it needs a cage with a large floor area and deep, diggable substrate. A cramped enclosure or shallow bedding can lead to stress or escape attempts.
2A True, Long Hibernation
This is a genuine hibernator that sleeps from August through March, more than half the year. Body temperature and heart rate drop dramatically during this period, so understanding safe temperature management beforehand is essential.
3Diurnal and Solitary
It's active during the day and naturally prefers living alone. Housing squirrels individually, rather than grouping them together, suits this species' temperament best.
4Suited to Intermediate Keepers
Because it requires careful hibernation management and an enclosure built around its digging habits, this species is considered suitable for intermediate keepers with some prior small-animal experience.
5A Lifespan of Up to About 8 Years
In captivity, this species can live up to around eight years, so keepers should plan for a long-term companion. Watch for changes in health across the many hibernation cycles it will go through.
6Know the Adult Size
Adults reach a total length of roughly 17-30 cm (including a 6-13 cm tail) and weigh about 110-270 g. Choose cage dimensions and accessories with this adult size in mind, not the size at arrival.
7Prepare the Habitat First
Since the needs during hibernation and active periods differ, it's best to have the cage, substrate, and temperature control fully set up before bringing one home. Also plan for minimizing stress during the move.
Frequently asked questions about Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel
- Q.Can it be kept together with other squirrels?
- A.This species is naturally solitary, so keeping each individual in its own cage is generally recommended. Housing them together can lead to territorial stress or conflict.
- Q.Can I just leave it alone during hibernation?
- A.During hibernation, body temperature and heart rate drop significantly, so the surrounding temperature still needs to be monitored. Avoid sudden temperature swings or unnecessary disturbance during this period.
- Q.How large a cage does it need?
- A.Because it digs enthusiastically, a cage with a large floor area and enough depth for substrate suits it best. Choose a size with room to spare based on its adult length of roughly 17-30 cm.
- Q.Is this species suitable for first-time keepers?
- A.This species is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, since it requires careful hibernation management and digging-friendly housing. Some prior experience with small animals is helpful.
- Q.Is this species subject to any international regulation?
- A.The thirteen-lined ground squirrel is not subject to CITES.
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