“Next time I'll bring more granola!”- Sandy Cheeks Winter is coming! Are you ready? Golden-mantled ground squirrels are ready. Wait, isn’t that a chipmunk? Close. The Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel can be identified by its chipmunk-like stripes and coloration, but unlike chipmunks, it lacks any facial stripes. However, the ground squirrel is similar to chipmunks in more than just its appearance. Cheeky! Although it’s a traditional hibernator, building up its body fat to survive the winter, it’s also known to store food in its burrow, like the chipmunk, for consumption upon waking in the spring. Snack time! Both the Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel and the chipmunk also have expandable cheek pouches for carrying food. The cheek pouches get larger as they get older. Relatable. Image: “Am I ready? (Squirrel, there ain't a doubt)” A Golden-mantled ground squirrel spotted stuffing their cheek pouches with Gambel oak acorns at @blackcanyonnps NPS/J.Stringfield #winteriscoming #hungry #winter #snacktime #squirrel #colorado