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Indian palm squirrel Facts

Indian palm squirrel Facts
Indian palm squirrel is species of small rodent that belongs to the squirrel family. There are 4 subspecies of Indian palm squirrel that are native to India and Sri Lanka. Indian palm squirrel inhabits tropical rainforests, savannas and jungles. It has been introduced to Australia, Madagascar and few more countries during the 19th century. Due to lack of natural enemies, Indian palm squirrel produces huge damage in the orchards and gardens and reduces number of native species of birds in all areas outside its native range. In some parts of the world, Indian palm squirrel is kept as a house pet. Indian palm squirrel is numerous and widespread in the wild (not on the list of endangered species).
Interesting Indian palm squirrel Facts:
Indian palm squirrel can reach 6 to 7.8 inches in length and 3.5 to 4.2 ounces of weight.
Indian palm squirrel is covered with short fur that is yellowish-brown or brown-colored on the back and creamy-white on the belly. It has three white stripes on the back that stretch from the head to tail. Due to unusual coloration, Indian palm squirrel is also known as three-striped squirrel.
Indian palm squirrel has important part in the Hindu mythology. According to the legend, squirrel helped Lord Rama to collect sand and build bridge to reach his captured loved one. Lord Rama stroked squirrel's back to show his gratitude and three stripes, marks of his fingers, appeared on its back.
Indian palm squirrel has dark, rounded eyes, small triangular ears, long front teeth and long bushy tail.
Indian palm squirrel is active during the day (diurnal animal).
Indian palm squirrel is an omnivore. Its diet is mostly based on the fruit and nuts, but it also consumes eggs, small birds, larvae and insects. Indian palm squirrel collects food and protects its stashes aggressively from other squirrels and birds.
Unlike other species of squirrels, Indian palm squirrel doesn't hibernate during the winter.
Indian palm squirrel is solitary creature. It produces shrill "chip chip chip" calls when it detects predators.
Natural enemies of Indian palm squirrels are snakes, birds of prey and wild cats.
Mating season of Indian palm squirrels takes place all year round.
Indian palm squirrels are very active animals that become uncontrollably excited during the mating season. Males often fight to get opportunity to mate.
Indian palm squirrels build nests in the treetops using the grass and branches.
Pregnancy lasts 34 to 45 days and ends with 1 to 5 babies. Females produces 2 to 3 litters per year.
Young Indian palm squirrels are fully weaned at the age of 10 weeks. They reach sexual maturity at the age of 9 months.
Indian palm squirrel can survive 2 to 4 years in the wild and 5.5 years in the captivity.


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