Annuli in Tooth Cementum Indicate Age in California Ground Squirrels

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Abstract
The age of California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) is revealed by annual rings in the cementum of the third molar tooth. A dark ring lies adjacent to the dentine at birth. Upon this a light ring is laid during the first summer, followed by a dark ring in winter. Successive light and dark rings are laid down in successive summers and winters. Although the number of rings does not always conform exactly to the number of years, the method is precise enough in a large percentage of cases to permit age determination to the nearest year through the first 4 years. After that the rings tend to deteriorate and should not be used as an age criterion.

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