HTTP: The Definitive Guide

Colophon

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The animal on the cover of HTTP: The Definitive Guide is a thirteen-lined ground squirrel (Spermophilus tridecemlineatus), common to central North America. True to its name, the thirteen-lined ground squirrel has thirteen stripes with rows of light spots that run the length of its back. Its color pattern blends into its surroundings, protecting it from predators. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are members of the squirrel family, which includes chipmunks, ground squirrels, tree squirrels, prairie dogs, and woodchucks. They are similar in size to the eastern chipmunk but smaller than the common gray squirrel, averaging about 11 inches in length (including a 5-6 inch tail).

Thirteen-lined ground squirrels go into hibernation in October and emerge in late March or early April. Each female usually produces one litter of 7-10 young each May. The young leave the burrows at four to five weeks of age and are fully grown at six weeks. Ground squirrels prefer open areas with short grass and well-drained sandy or loamy soils for burrows, and they avoid wooded areas-mowed lawns, golf courses, and parks are common habitats.

Ground squirrels can cause problems when they create burrows, dig up newly planted seeds, and damage vegetable gardens. ...