Spermophilus annulatus
ring-tailed ground squirrel

Spermophilus annulatus is endemic to west-central Mexico. (Nowak, 1991; Wilson and Reeder, 1993)

Ring-tailed ground squirrels inhabit the tropical lowlands of western Mexico. They are found in dense tropical forests and palm groves, especially in areas with thick, vine growth on larger trees. Spermophilus annulatus create burrows and cavities under cover of thick vegetation, on hillsides and near cultivated areas. These squirrels have been known to live in the walls of barns. (Best, 1995; Black, 1972; Prakash and Gosh, 1975)

The coloration of ring-tailed ground squirrels varies seasonally; these squirrels are more brightly colored during the breeding season. The head is predominantly black, while the body is a mix of black, buff, and pinkish coloration. Total length varies from 383 to 470 mm. The tail is narrow and has approximately fifteen annulations, or stripes. It is not as bushy as the tails of other squirrel species and is as long as the head and body of the animal. The skulls of females are generally larger than those of males. (Best, 1995; Murie and Michener, 1984)

The lifespan of S. annulatus is not known. Other Spermophilus species live for a maximum of 11 years (S. beldingi), but typically for about 3 to 4 years in males and 4 to 6 years in females. The higher male mortality is a result of the risks associated with male-biased dispersal. (Wilson and Ruff, 1999)

Ring-tailed ground squirrels are curious and active creatures. When startled, these squirrels will often run up a tree to catch a glimpse of the source of the disruption and then proceed into nearby burrows. S. annulatus has been observed making chirping sounds that seem to act as warning signals. They run with the tail curved over their backs when startled, similar to tree squirrels. Their motion is light and agile and they are frequently seen scurrying nimbly through the undergrowth, up trees, and foraging at the ends of branches. Little is known of their social structure. They are primarily active during the day. (Best, 1995; Hall, 1981; Murie and Michener, 1984)

Communication has not been studied in S. annulatus. However, Spermophilus species in general communicate with sounds, body language, by way of smells, and by touch, as do most mammals. Ground squirrels are known for the range of vocalizations they use, from whistles and chatters to trills and buzzes. S. annulatus is known to emit shrill whistling noises when alarmed. Specific warning vocalizations that distinguish between terrestrial and avian predators are known in other Spermophilus species. Some species have been recorded "kissing" when they meet and using scent marking. Ground squirrels perceive their environment using this same suite of senses. (Best, 1995; Nowak, 1991; Wilson and Ruff, 1999)

Spermophilus annulatus eats fruits and nuts and may also consume insects. Oil palm, mesquite, and cactus seeds are eaten, as well as the fleshy fronds of Opuntia cactus, figs, and other wild fruits and seeds. In agricultural areas they eat corn and the seeds of other agricultural plants. They can climb to the ends of branches in search of fruits and seed pods and will dig for seeds as well. (Best, 1995; Hall, 1981; Murie and Michener, 1984)

Predation on S. annulatus has not been described but it is likely that they are taken by a variety of small to medium-sized predators, especially birds of prey. They are agile, vigilant, and seek refuge in burrows and cavities to avoid predation. (Best, 1995; Nowak, 1991)

Although ecosystem roles of S. annulatus have not been described in detail, they impact plant regeneration through their seed predation and may help to disperse the seeds of some plants. They may also act as an important prey base for birds of prey and other predators.

Much of the natural habitat of these ground squirrels is being cleared for agricultural purposes. They are considered agricultural pests in some areas because they eat fruit from orchards, corn, and other crops. (Best, 1995; Murie and Michener, 1984)

It is not known what, if any, benefits this species provides to humans. They may act to disperse the seeds of some wild, native plants.

This species has a global conservation heritage status of G4 that indicates that S. annulatus is uncommon but not rare. Although population numbers are decreasing, they are not considered in danger of extinction. (Best, 1995)