Ground Squirrel or Chipmunks This squirrel is brown with 13 whitish stripes on its sides and back. They are small, measuring about 7 to 12 inches long, including a three to five inch long tail. The thirteen-lined ground squirrel can be found in open short and mid-grass prairies and golf courses. They dig extensive burrows and hibernate about 6 months out of the year. Reproduction Soon after hibernation ends in April, these squirrels mate. After a gestation period of 28 days, 7 to 10 young are born. They mature quickly and leave the burrow after about a month. Females usually produce only one litter a year. Habitat and Behavior These small rodents can be found in open short and mid-grass prairies and golf courses. They dig extensive burrows to escape predators. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are omnivorous and usually feed on seeds, insects, plant material and occasionally meat.