I wonder where the founder stock of these animals came from. I ask so I can determine what subspecies these animals are. Otospermophilus variegatus being polytypic is quite obvious. For example Otospermophilus variegatus grammurus from Arizona and Otospermophilus variegatus buckleyi from central Texas show great phenotypic difference. Here is an example of the former Otospermophilus variegatus grammurus (Arizona Rock Squirrel) | BioLib.cz and here is an example of the latter Otospermophilus variegatus buckleyi (Texas Rock Squirrel) | BioLib.cz I have actually seen both ssp. in the wild in their home ranges, but unfortunately my photos are not of good enough quality to upload here.
