Chipmunks - Pictures

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Chipmunks - Breeding Behavior

Male Chipmunks are the first to emerge from the winter hibernation. They wander near a female's burrow and wait for the time when a female will be in estrus. Males can mate with more than one female during the breeding season. Fights between males for the right to breed are not rare. As a rule, the breeding season occurs in April-May. It varies from one region to another.

The gestation period lasts for about one month. The litter size approximates 5 young. Males do not take part in rearing the young. Generally, Chipmunks breed only once a year. However, in favorable conditions, they can have two litters a year. The young are born blind and very small. In a week or so, they acquire hairs and the eyes open by one month of age.

After that, little Chipmunks start to leave the den. They grow quickly and reach the adult size by the age of 3-4 months. Chipmunks appear to be sexually mature by the age of one year old. However, not all Chipmunks breed in their first year.

Chipmunks - Pets

Chipmunks are sometimes kept as pets. These curious active animals are a wonderful addition to the family. Chipmunks can be placed alone or in groups. As a rule, one male is placed with two females. Run-ins between males can occur. Therefore, it is not recommended to keep a few males in one cage. Chipmunks need a large cage with paper, wood waste, and similar material as a cover.

As for diet, Chipmunks do well on cereals, nuts, fruits, and some animal protein. Chipmunk owners feed them some meat and eggs. It is wise to vary the diet from time to time. Chipmunks should always have free access to fresh water.

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