I was photographing some birds near a bird feeder at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center (Arkansas) when this Chipmunk appeared.
There’s only one type of chipmunk commonly found in Arkansas: the Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus). This adorable little critter with the characteristic stripes and bushy tail makes its home throughout the state, from the Ozark Mountains to urban parks and gardens.
Eastern chipmunks are incredibly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, including:
- Deciduous forests: Their ideal environment, offering plenty of trees, leaves, and cover.
- Woodlands and brush lands: Dense vegetation and fallen logs provide food and shelter.
- Urban areas: Parks, backyards, and even houses with gardens can be suitable habitats, thanks to their ability to find food and burrow.
So, if you spot a chipmunk darting across your path or hear its distinctive chirp, you’re most likely dealing with the resourceful and charming Eastern chipmunk. Keep an eye out for their playful antics and enjoy their presence in the Arkansas landscape!
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS-1D Mark III
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS
Technical:
I was hand-holding my camera and lens.
- Location: Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center (Arkansas)
- Date and Time Taken: May 15, 2009 (11:50 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f5.6
- Shutter speed: 1/200 (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 1600
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 400 mm