Barbary Ground Squirrel
The Barbary Ground Squirrel, also known by its scientific name Atlantoxerus getulus, is an endemic rodent species found in the Atlas Mountains and the rocky deserts of southern Morocco.
Common across the Saharan regions of Morocco, this small desert mammal is easily recognisable by its short ears and sandy-coloured fur, blending almost seamlessly with the golden dunes of its arid habitat.
Characteristics of the Barbary Ground Squirrel
A vegetarian member of the squirrel family (Sciuridae), the Barbary Ground Squirrel typically measures between 20 and 25 cm in body length, with a distinctive bushy tail ranging from 15 to 20 cm. It has small rounded ears, sturdy claws for digging, and a coarse coat with alternating grey and dark brown stripes along its back and flanks.
It inhabits rocky desert regions known as regs, where it shelters from the heat of the day and the chill of the night in burrows dug into the ground. It is most active during the cooler parts of the day — just after sunrise and before dusk — when it ventures out in search of food among the rocks and low vegetation.
In local Amazigh (Berber) communities of the Atlas, it is referred to as “Anzid” (masculine) or “Tanzitt” (feminine). The Barbary Ground Squirrel’s diet consists primarily of seeds and fruits from native plants such as Pistacia and Argania. It is especially fond of hard-shelled seeds like hazelnuts, acorns, walnuts, and sunflower seeds, as well as fruits including apples, peaches, and dates. It also occasionally nibbles on vegetables such as potatoes.
In harsher conditions, when plant-based food is scarce, it may supplement its diet with insects or small birds, displaying remarkable adaptability to its desert environment.
Breeding typically occurs in spring, and the squirrel’s social structure during this period is notably variable. Some individuals may remain solitary — particularly females with their young — while others form complex social groups involving multiple adults of both sexes.
According to Conservation Nature, the composition of these groups can differ even within the same region. The most common social unit observed is a pair of females associating together, though larger mixed-sex groups are also documented.
The Barbary Ground Squirrel is preyed upon by eagles, foxes, and buzzards, and it has developed keen awareness and agility to avoid these natural predators. In the wild, it typically lives for 3 to 4 years, while in captivity, its lifespan can extend to 6 or 7 years.
