Use of visual cues in foraging by a diurnal herbivore, Belding's ground squirrel

Ground squirrels' vision has been Fairly well characterized, but whether they actually use vision in foraging has not been demonstrated. Belding's ground squirrels (Spermophilus beldingi) were allowed to Forage under natural conditions for experimental bail stations to test the hypothesis that they can learn to use visual cues to forage more efficiently. Bait stations with visual cues were more likely to be found, and were Found more quickly, than controls. Bait stations in taller and (or) denser vegetation were less likely to be found, suggesting that the value of visual cues may change during the growing season. Visual cues can be used to increase foraging efficiency, but other cues are probably used as well.