A Siberian chipmunk on Mount Taisetsu, Hokkaido, Japan

© Ida Toshiaki/Minden Picture

Admiring an expert face-stuffer

The Siberian chipmunk is the only chipmunk found outside of North America. Its native habitat ranges from across Russia to northern China and Japan, and down into Korea. Though Siberian pine nuts are a favourite meal, these little rodents will eat just about anything - seeds, fruits, insects, even small birds and lizards. Our ravenous friend here in Hokkaido, Japan, is gorging on inflorescences, or clusters of flowers. A chipmunk can stuff a surprising amount of goodies into its cheek pouches, which can stretch to three times its head size. Imagine how ridiculous we'd look if our stomachs were as forgiving.