mantled ground squirrel
Noun: A medium-sized ground squirrel (Callospermophilus lateralis or Spermophilus lateralis) native to western North America. It is characterized by a reddish-brown coat with a distinctive pair of light-colored stripes running down its back, bordered by darker stripes, giving it a "mantled" or cloaked appearance. It is known for its chipmunk-like markings and behavior.
The term "mantled ground squirrel" is used specifically to identify this particular species of rodent in scientific, wildlife, and naturalist contexts. It refers to the animal itself. - The hiker spotted a mantled ground squirrel gathering seeds near the trailhead. - A key identifier of the mantled ground squirrel is the pair of white stripes on its back.
- In taxonomic or biological writing, the scientific names or the former classification are used interchangeably with the common name "mantled ground squirrel."
- The "mantle" in its name descriptively refers to the pattern of its fur, resembling a cloak or mantle over its shoulders and back.
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel: This is the most common full name for the species. The "golden" refers to the reddish or golden-brown hue of its fur.
- The golden-mantled ground squirrel is often mistaken for a chipmunk.
- Ground squirrel: The general family () to which this species belongs.
- Chipmunk: A different, though superficially similar, genus of small striped squirrels.
- Golden-mantled ground squirrel (full common name).
- (primary scientific name).
- (former scientific name).
Not applicable. This is a specific zoological term and is not used in idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs.
- common black-striped reddish-brown ground squirrel of western North America; resembles a large chipmunk