Growth of juvenile arctic ground squirrels (Spermophilus parryii) at McConnell River, N.W.T.

Abstract

Growth of juvenile arctic ground squirrels was documented and compared with reports on other North American hibernators to determine the effect of reduced homeothermal periods on rates of development. The hypothesis that increased growth rates compensate for short summer seasons was supported. Growth rates were negatively correlated with the duration of the homeothermal period. Arctic ground squirrels at McConnell River, N.W.T., had the fastest growth rate among 12 populations.