They are found statewide, primarily in hardwood forests and mixed woodlands of pine and hardwood. The eastern chipmunk is a very rare resident of Florida, although it is commonly found to our north. In fact, its known distribution in Florida is limited to portions of five northwestern counties near the Alabama border. Because of its rarity in Florida, the eastern chipmunk is listed by the state as a species of special concern. They are distinguished by 5 dark stripes that run the length of their back that are divided by 4 light tan stripes.
Eastern chipmunks are our only ground squirrel.
They spend much of their time on the ground and normally live in dens below ground. In other respects they are much like the tree squirrels. Attracting squirrels with feeders, however, is not recommended because it often causes more problems than benefits. Feeders often encourage more squirrels to live in an area than can be supported by the neighboring habitat. When this occurs, squirrels may search out nesting sites in your home and cause property damage.