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Where the Chipmunks Went
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The chipmunk in your yard has vanished for the winter.
It's underground, in a tunnel up to 30 feet long.
With a pantry of thousands of nuts.
Its cheeks hold up to 70 seeds.
Now it sleeps for days at a time.
Every few days it wakes up, has a snack, and dozes off.
The front door? Plugged with dirt, so nothing finds it.
See you in March or April.
Watch the feeder on a warm day.
Chipmunks near bird feeders may pop up for sunflower seeds in winter. Spot one in January? It may be out for a snack between naps.
Data: Mass Audubon, USDA APHIS, CT DEEP, and the Pennsylvania Game Commission.