290 Notocitellus adocetusNotocitellus adocetus (Merriam, 1903)
Tropical Ground Squirrel
description: N. adocetus is smaller and paler in color than
N. annulatus, the most similar congener found within its
range. In addition, the ears are small, and the rostrum is
shorter but broader than that of N. annulatus; unlike the latter
species, there are no tail rings. Other species found within
or near its range include Ictidomys mexicanus and Otosper-
mophilus variegatus; the latter can be distinguished by its nine
dorsal rows of white spots. Unlike O. variegatus, N. adocetus
has tawny or buff y pelage on the sides of the head, and a
closed supraorbital foramen.
size: Female—HB 168.3 mm; T 131.9 mm.
Male—HB 175.5 mm; T 150.2 mm.
Sex not stated—HB 194.0 mm; T 156.0 mm.
distribution: The tropical ground squirrel is found in
westcentral México, in four Mexican states (Jalisco, Mi-
choacán, México D.F., and northern Guerrero) within the
Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Disjunct populations may re-
sult from introductions, due to the pet trade.
geographic variation: Three subspecies are recognized.
Records for Jalisco and México D.F. are identifi ed on ly at t he
species level.N. a. adocetus—Michoácan (México). The general color is
grayish or buff y.
N. a. arceliae—Guerrero (México). There are tail marks in a
V shape. The color of the incisors is raw sienna.
N. a. infernatus—southwestern portion of the species’ range,
in Michoacán and northern Guerrero (México). This
form is smaller and more marked with a dark blackish
coloring on the muzzle than N. a. adocetus.conservation: IUCN Status—least concern. Population
trend—stable.habitat: N. adocetus is typically found in xeric vegetation
and rocky habitats, often among cliff s and canyons; it is also
associated with agricultural areas, where it can cause sig-
nifi cant crop damage. The native vegetation in its habitat is
often mesquite (Prosopis) and barrel cactus (Cephalocereus).Notocitellus A. H. Howell, 1938
This genus has two species.
Notocitellus adocetus. Photo courtesy Troy L. Best.