Callospermophilus lateralis bernardinus

San Bernardino Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel

Family: Sciuridae · Class: Mammalia · Order: Rodentia

Conservation status: G5T1 S1

The San Bernardino Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is a subspecies of the golden-mantled ground squirrel endemic to the San Bernardino Mountains of southern California. This medium-sized ground squirrel typically measures 230-290 mm (9.1-11.4 inches) in total length, with a tail length of 75-120 mm (3.0-4.7 inches). Adults weigh between 150-300 grams (5.3-10.6 ounces). The species exhibits the characteristic golden-mantled ground squirrel appearance with a grayish-brown dorsal surface, distinctive white stripes bordered by black stripes running along each side of the body, and a golden to rusty-colored head and shoulders that give the species its common name. This subspecies is restricted to the San Bernardino Mountains in San Bernardino County, California, representing one of the most geographically limited populations of golden-mantled ground squirrels. The San Bernardino Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel occupies high-elevation coniferous forests, primarily between 2,100-3,350 meters (6,900-11,000 feet) elevation. According to NatureServe, the subspecies inhabits areas with good habitat distribution, though its range is extremely limited compared to other golden-mantled ground squirrel subspecies. The species prefers montane coniferous forest habitats, including mixed conifer forests dominated by ponderosa pine, white fir, and lodgepole pine. It utilizes forest openings, meadow edges, and areas with fallen logs and rock outcrops that provide suitable denning sites. The subspecies constructs extensive burrow systems in well-drained soils, typically near protective cover such as logs, rocks, or dense vegetation. San Bernardino Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels are primarily diurnal and exhibit typical ground squirrel behavior patterns. They are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, nuts, fruits, green vegetation, and occasionally insects. The species demonstrates food-hoarding behavior, caching seeds and nuts in their burrows for winter consumption. Breeding occurs in late spring following emergence from hibernation, with females producing a single litter of 3-7 young per year. The subspecies hibernates during winter months, typically from October through April, depending on elevation and snow conditions. The San Bernardino Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel is not federally listed but carries a Global/State Rank of G5T1 S1, indicating the subspecies is critically imperiled in California and globally. This ranking reflects the extremely limited range and small population size of this endemic subspecies. Primary threats include habitat loss and fragmentation from development, recreational activities, and climate change impacts on high-elevation forest ecosystems. The subspecies' restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to local environmental changes and disturbances. Forest management practices, including fire suppression and altered fire regimes, may also impact habitat quality. The small population size and isolated distribution increase vulnerability to genetic bottlenecks and local extinction events.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.