Habitat
•In virtually all habitats - sagebrush desert,
grasslands, riparian areas, montane,
subalpine coniferous forests & alpine tundra
•Usually not seen in wetlands
Food Habits
•Omnivorous diet although dentition is adapted for seed
eating. Invertebrates important
in warm months, green plant material a minor but important component. Stores some food in burrow
Ecology
•In forest areas densities peak about 2-5 years after
clear- cutting, then decline as
succession advances. 15 yrs. after cut, uncut & cut densities similar
•On prairie production may be linked to precipitation
