We came across this watchful mother at Cascade Ponds in Banff National Park. I enjoy stopping at the Ponds, close to Banff townsite, because of the beautiful mountain views if provides.
Columbian ground squirrels have reddish-tan fur on their face and chest, with white-speckled grey-brown fur covering their backs. They are only found in the Rocky Mountain region of Canada and the northern USA. After a summer feast of leaves, bulbs and seeds, they spend more than half the year hibernating in their burrows.
This squirrel was sitting outside her burrow keeping a close eye on us. Her kit kept darting in and out, uncertain of what's going on. As our path got close to them, she let out a few warning cries and both disappeared into their burrow.
(A warning cry from mom and they disappear)
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