Merriam's ground squirrel is a ground-dwelling squirrel found in dry parts of Oregon and Idaho. Its two subspecies differ in size and coat color, and details of their habits remain limited.
The back is medium brown with cream-colored flecks, the fur behind the ears is slightly orange, and the tail is rusty brown. The larger subspecies is lighter and rustier; the smaller one is darker, with reddish-buff or gray-cream underparts.
The annual cycles and diets of both subspecies are poorly known. Burrow entrances are often hidden under bushes or rocks.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.