Ratufa macroura dandolena

(Thomas & Wroughton, 1915)

Vernacular names
English : Sri Lankan giant squirrel
French : Ecureuil géant du Sri Lanka

Classification
Class : Mammalia
Order : Rodentia
Family : Sciuridae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.

Identification
The species can grow to 39 cm in length with a 36 cm long tail and a weight of 1,6 kg. Very long bushy tail. Fur mostly dark grizzled grey with white limbs and belly. Lightest subspecies with brown back, dirty brown cheeks and clear tail.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in southern India and Sri Lanka. This subspecies is found in south India and in the lowland dry zone of north and east Sri Lanka. Lives in riverine habitats in dry, deciduous and mountain forests.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NEAR THREATENED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species has a fragmented range and is more and more vulnerable to habitat loss and hunting. Indian subpopulation is highly threatened.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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