Ever watched a chipmunk dart across a park or seen a squirrel dash up a tree? It’s hard not to wonder how these two little creatures connect. Here’s the thing: Chipmunks are actually a type of squirrel. They’re part of the same family, just with their own quirks and habits.
Chipmunks usually look smaller and stick to the ground more, while squirrels tend to be bigger and hang out in trees. You’ll spot those chipmunk stripes right away—most squirrels don’t have them. Still, they share a lot, thanks to how closely they’re related.
Once you realize this, it kind of changes how you see these backyard critters. Next time you’re outside, you might notice even more about them.
Curious about what makes chipmunks stand out from the rest of the squirrel crew? Let’s dig into the details so you can spot the differences and see how they fit into the big squirrel family. You might find out they’re more connected than you thought.
Are Chipmunks Technically Squirrels?
So, are chipmunks really squirrels or are they something else? Figuring this out means looking at how scientists classify them, what sets them apart, and clearing up some common confusion.
Taxonomy and Classification in the Squirrel Family
Chipmunks belong to the Sciuridae family. This family includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, flying squirrels, and marmots.
Within Sciuridae, chipmunks sit in a smaller group called the subtribe Tamiina. That group breaks down into four genera: Tamias, Neotamias, Eutamias, and Nototamias (though that last one’s extinct).
All chipmunks count as squirrels. Not all squirrels, though, are chipmunks. For instance, the familiar grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is a tree squirrel and usually much bigger.
People sometimes call chipmunks “ground squirrels,” but chipmunks are smaller and have those classic stripes that most other squirrels lack.
Main Differences Between Chipmunks and Squirrels
Chipmunks stay smaller and wear those stripes along their backs and heads. Most squirrels, like the grey squirrel, just don’t have that look.
Check out their cheeks—chipmunks have built-in pouches for carrying food. Most tree squirrels don’t.
You’ll spot chipmunks scurrying on the ground or popping in and out of burrows. Squirrels, especially tree squirrels, spend their days climbing and sometimes even gliding from branch to branch.
Their diets overlap a bit. Chipmunks eat seeds, insects, and sometimes even eggs or tiny animals. Tree squirrels mostly snack on nuts and fruits.
Chipmunks stash food in tunnels for winter. Squirrels, on the other hand, tend to hide their food up in trees.
Common Misconceptions About Chipmunks
A lot of folks think chipmunks aren’t squirrels or that they’re their own thing. Actually, chipmunks fit right into the squirrel family.
People also mix up chipmunks and “ground squirrels.” That term covers a bunch of different critters, not just chipmunks. And while many picture squirrels as tree dwellers, chipmunks mostly stick to the ground, which adds to the confusion.
Once you know these basics, it’s easier to see how chipmunks are squirrels, just with their own set of quirks. If you want more info, check out chipmunks and squirrels.
Chipmunk and Squirrel Life and Behavior
Chipmunks and squirrels might be cousins, but their lifestyles and habits don’t always match up. Chipmunks spend a lot of time underground and prefer being on their own.
Squirrels, especially tree squirrels, build nests up high and often stick together more. How they eat and raise their young also looks pretty different.
Chipmunk Burrowing and Social Habits
Chipmunks dig out complex underground homes called burrows. Some of these tunnels stretch up to 30 feet and have special rooms for sleeping, storing food, and even waste.
You’ll usually find just one chipmunk living in each burrow. They like to avoid competing with others.
Chipmunks stay busy during the day and do most of their work on the ground. They use those cheek pouches to haul food back home.
Unlike many squirrels, chipmunks act more territorial. They don’t hang out in groups much.
Squirrel Nesting and Feeding Patterns
Tree squirrels, like the grey squirrel, build nests called dreys in the treetops. These nests keep them safe from predators and the weather.
Ground squirrels do things differently. They dig burrows like chipmunks but sometimes share space with others in colonies.
Squirrels spend a lot of time searching for nuts, seeds, and fruit. Flying squirrels come out at night and glide from tree to tree.
Squirrels and chipmunks eat some of the same things, but squirrels usually hide their food in trees instead of under the ground.
Reproduction and Litters in Chipmunks and Squirrels
Chipmunks usually have one or two litters each year. Each litter brings two to eight babies into the world.
The young stick around in the burrow for a few weeks before they dare to peek outside. You’ll probably notice how quickly chipmunks mature—guess they have to, considering how hectic life is on the ground.
Squirrels also tend to have one or two litters a year. They usually have fewer babies per litter compared to chipmunks.
Tree squirrels raise their young in nests way up in the trees. The little ones stay close to mom until they’re ready to climb and find food for themselves.
| Animal | Litters per Year | Number of Babies | Young Stay With Parent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipmunks | 1-2 | 2-8 | Several weeks in burrow |
| Tree Squirrels | 1-2 | Usually 2-4 | In nests until independent |
| Ground Squirrels | 1-2 | Varies | Stay near burrow or colony |
