Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel

Wherever we took a break at a popular stop on the trails, there were always little guys wanting a handout.  It’s against the rules in most parks to feed the wildlife.  It makes them more dependent on humans and they probably wouldn’t be getting what’s best for their diet and survival.

We didn’t share, but we saw plenty of others who thought they were just so cute and looked hungry.

This particular ground squirrel wasn’t begging for handouts.  Just before this photo was taken, it had been busy eating the a rose hip.

Gallery: Rocky Mountain National Park,  Eastern slopes – September 1, 2009

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