The European souslik (Spermophilus citellus) is a ground-dwelling squirrel native mainly to Eastern Europe. It lives in burrows dug into the soil of open areas such as short grasslands, pastures, and golf courses. Using its cheek pouches, it carries and stores seeds, young plant shoots, insects, and other items in its burrow. Diurnal, it spends much of its time foraging and retreats to its burrow when it senses danger. It accumulates fat in summer and hibernates in winter; breeding takes place after emergence from hibernation. Its population has declined due to habitat alteration, and it is classified as threatened.