Wildlife Wednesday — Least Chipmunks
By Andy Ames
Last week we were treated to the sight of a baby Least chipmunk making its first excursion from its natal den. At first it looked a little stunned as it sat motionless on a post. Perhaps it was the bright sunlight or maybe the discovery of a whole new world.
Least chipmunks mate soon after emerging from hibernation. We saw our first ones in late February this year. After a 30 day gestation the mother gives birth. Litters are usually 4-6 young so it is unknown if this was just a small litter or the only survivor. Each little pup is born naked, blind, and weighing little over 2 grams. That is less than the weight of a dime! 2 weeks later they are fully furred with eyes open. 2 to 4 weeks after that they are weaned and ready to leave their natal den.
This little one was soon joined by its mother who encouraged it on its first excursion out into the world. She scurried down the post and found a seed, showing its pup that there was food to be had beyond the den. The pup dropped down and did the same. Next mom ran off further into a bush, showing the pup a place to hide. The pup hesitated but followed again. Finally, mom ran through the grass, waited for the pup to catch up, and then returned to the den. By now a little tired, the pup followed back home. The whole event lasted only a few minutes but was a big first step.
A few days later we saw the little chipmunk again. This time it was out foraging all on its own.
