The Chipmunk is a small, easily recognizable rodent in the squirrel, or Sciuridae, family. They are part of the ground squirrel, or Marmotini, tribe. Researchers recognize 25 different species, and place them in three different taxonomic genuses.

They have small bodies with little rounded ears, several dark stripes down their flanks, and a mid-length furry tail. Their tail does not have the bushiness like a tree squirrel. Chipmunks can measure about 5 or 6 inches long, with 4- or 5-inch-long tails. Most chipmunk species weigh between 3 or 4 ounces, but that varies depending on location.