Also known as red squirrels, chickarees are especially fond of pine seeds. To get at the seed, the cones are pried open, leaving a pile of debris that can be up to 3 feet across. Whole cones are stashed in middens for winter use, Often, several generations will add to the same midden over a period of 20 years or more.
Typically, a chickaree will be heard before it’s seen, making a loud rackety call when an intruder enters its territory.
Bear Lake Trail, September 3, 2009
Rocky Mountain National Park
Gallery: Bear Lake and Emerald Lake Trails – September 3, 2009
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