Ground Squirrel

The Ground Squirrel species is not arboreal. They cannot climb trees, but live in burrows dug with their sharp claws (longer & less curved than tree squirrel's). They must constamtly be alert for ground predators, and for those from the sky. I have not been able to find an explanation for the very large testicles of the male. This species is larger than the arboreal species, and may weigh as much as 20 lbs. [Okaukuejo, Namibia].

African Ground Squirrel

The African Ground Squirrel lives in a burrow. It is incapable of climbing into trees. Please inspect the claws of the male standing on the right where it can readily be seen that the claws are not prehensile (flexible) like a cat's. They are made only for digging. A young female can be seen (left) climbing out of their burrow. [Botswana].