Otospermophilus variegatus, commonly known as the Rock Squirrel, is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its range includes the states of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Utah, and parts of Nevada and California in the United States, as well as several northern states in Mexico.

Rock Squirrels inhabit a variety of environments, typically arid to semi-arid regions. They are commonly found in rocky areas, cliffs, canyons, and open grasslands. The climate in these regions can range from hot and dry in the summer to cold in the winter, often with minimal rainfall.

Rock Squirrels are diurnal and primarily herbivorous, feeding on seeds, fruits, and vegetation, though they will occasionally consume insects and small animals. They are known for their burrowing habits, creating complex burrows in the rocky soils that offer protection from predators and extreme weather conditions. These squirrels play a role in seed dispersion and soil aeration, contributing to their ecological niche.