Correlates of burrow location in Beechey ground squirrels

Authors

Donald H. Owings, University of California, Davis, California
Mark Borchert, University of California, Davis, California

Abstract

Partial correlation analysis indicates that Beechey ground squirrels show a strong preference for digging burrows under and around large objects, may show a weaker tendency to locate their burrows under the cover of tree canopies, and avoid digging burrows in areas with both treecanopy and ground cover (stones, logs). These relationships hold for large but not small burrow systems. The need for unobstructed visual surveillance and an autumn food supply are proposed to be determinants of these preferences.

Recommended Citation

Owings, Donald H. and Borchert, Mark (1975) "Correlates of burrow location in Beechey ground squirrels," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 35: No. 4, Article 5.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol35/iss4/5