Squirrel - The Chipmunk
Squirrel (Tiyin Chychkan).
In 1952, 200 Tiyin squirrels were brought from the ribbon forests of Kazakhstan and settled in the spruce forests near Przhevalsk (Jilandy Gorge). The following year, a second batch of 73 was released into the forests of the Naryn Ridge.
Each female gives birth to two litters a year, with 4-5 offspring in each. The squirrels reproduced so well that by 1955 their numbers had increased tenfold. This allowed for the capture of about 100 of their already acclimatized squirrels in the same year and their relocation to a new area along the Chon-Kemin. Such relocation will continue until the squirrels inhabit all forest areas.
In their homeland, the Tiyin squirrel primarily feeds on the seeds of pine cones and mushrooms. In Kyrgyzstan, however, it has switched to feeding on the seeds of spruce cones, consuming a lot of spruce buds and shoots, as well as mushrooms, berries, and a few insects. In winter, when cones are scarce, it can survive for long periods solely on spruce buds and shoots. In 1953, a poor year for spruce cones, the squirrels rarely descended to the ground covered with deep snow, spending almost all their time in the trees; they would feed on spruce shoots and then return to their nests. The squirrel builds its nest from branches in the tree. It resembles a bird's nest but is spherical in shape. The squirrel's nest is called a "gaino." Inside, it is lined with moss, fur, and bird feathers, making it soft and warm. In winter, when the squirrel returns home from foraging, it plugs the entrance with moss from the inside. The temperature inside the nest does not drop below +10° even in severe frosts. In summer, the squirrel mostly feeds on the ground.
It reproduces twice a year: from March to May and from June to August, giving birth to 3-5 blind and helpless young. After a month, their eyes open, and after 1.5-2 months, the squirrel pups become independent.
It primarily feeds on the seeds and buds of spruce, mushrooms, and berries. Less frequently, it consumes green plants, insects, snails, mouse-like rodents, eggs, and nestlings of birds.
Active during daylight hours. In winter, it makes reserves by burying cones in the forest litter and skewering mushrooms on branches.
On cold winter days, it becomes less active and hides in its nest.
Red Book
