Burrow System and Home Range Use by Eastern Chipmunks, Tamias striatus: Ecological and Behavioral Considerations

Abstract

Ecological and behavioral factors determining the use of home ranges and burrow systems by a population of 22 chipmunks, Tamias striatus, were studied from October 1973 to November 1975. Intensity of use of the core area proximal to the burrow system relative to other sectors of the home range was dependent on age-sex class and season. In general, older animals inhabited the same system for a longer period of time than younger animals. Distances of shifts to new systems were greater in males than those of females. The temporal and spatial distribution of food resources and mates are important parameters determining home range use. The permanency of burrow system use is dependent on food availability, social pressures, and other factors.