Texas Rock Squirrel: Habitat, Diet, Behavior, And Conservation
The Texas Rock Squirrel (Spermophilus variegatus) is a small, ground-dwelling rodent found in rocky habitats of central Texas. Its omnivorous diet consists of seeds, insects, and plant matter, which it gathers through diurnal foraging. The squirrel has a distinctive grayish-brown coat with white spots and stripes, and a bushy tail. Known for its solitary nature, it lives in burrows and communicates through vocalizations. Reproducing once yearly, females give birth to litters of up to seven pups. With a lifespan of up to 3 years, its conservation status is listed as “Least Concern” despite habitat loss threats.