<P> The eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus) is a chipmunk species found in eastern North America . It is the only living member of the chipmunk subgenus Tamias, sometimes recognised as a separate genus . The name "chipmunk" comes from the Ottawa word ajidamoonh or the Ojibwe word ajidamoo, which translates literally as "one who descends trees headlong ." </P> <P> A small species, it reaches about 30 cm (12 in) in length including the tail, and a weight of 66--150 g (2.3--5.3 oz). It has reddish - brown fur on its upper body and five dark brown stripes contrasting with light brown stripes along its back, ending in a dark tail . It has lighter fur on the lower part of its body . It has a tawny stripe that runs from its whiskers to below its ears, and light stripes over its eyes . It has two fewer teeth than other chipmunks and four toes each on the front legs, but five on the hind legs . </P> <P> The eastern chipmunk lives in deciduous wooded areas and urban parks throughout the eastern United States and southern Canada . It prefers locations with rocky areas, brush or log piles, and shrubs to provide cover . </P> <P> It can climb trees well, but constructs underground nests with extensive tunnel systems, often with several entrances . To hide the construction of its burrow, the eastern chipmunk carries soil to a different location in its cheek pouches . It also lines the burrow with leaves, rocks, sticks, and other material, making it even harder to see . It has several bird - like or chattering calls; one is a trill at the rate of 130 vibrations per minute and another is a lower - pitched, clicking sound . </P>

How long does a chipmunk live in the wild