Definition & Meaning of "chipmunk"

What is a "chipmunk"?

Chipmunks are small, ground-dwelling rodents known for their cute and energetic behavior. They are typically found in North America and Asia, and are known for their distinctive stripes that run down their backs. Chipmunks have a compact body with a short tail, small ears, and sharp claws for digging. They are known for their excellent climbing and jumping abilities, and are often seen scurrying up trees and foraging on the ground for nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects. Chipmunks are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and are known for their quick movements and high-pitched vocalizations. They are solitary animals and may live in burrows or nests they build in tree hollows or underground. Chipmunks are known for their hoarding behavior, collecting and storing food in their burrows or cheek pouches to sustain them during the winter months when food is scarce. They are agile and adaptable animals, well-suited to living in a variety of habitats, from forests and woodlands to gardens and urban areas.