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Rare Sighting: The Indian giant flying squirrel was recently spotted in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, marking the first recorded sighting in that region.
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Local Significance: Locals consider the squirrel’s appearance a positive omen.
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Photographic Evidence: Nature photographer Kamal Goswami captured an image of the squirrel, confirming its presence.
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Rescue and Release: Forest department officials rescued the squirrel after being alerted and released it back into the wild.
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Distinct Species: Despite resembling a regular squirrel, the Indian giant flying squirrel is a distinct species.
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Physical Characteristics: The squirrel is one of the largest flying squirrels with body length 30–45 cm and tail up to 60 cm, has a rufous coat, grey underparts, and a membrane for gliding.
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Habitat and Distribution: Typically found in tropical and subtropical forests across central and southern India, it is now confirmed in Ranikhet.
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Nocturnal Behaviour: The squirrel is nocturnal and arboreal, gliding between trees to find food, and can cover distances up to 60 meters.
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Diet: It primarily feeds on fruits, nuts, leaves, and bark, aiding in seed dispersal.
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Ecological Role: The species plays a significant role in maintaining forest ecosystems.
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Legal Protection: Listed in Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
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Conservation Status: Globally listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, but considered “Near Threatened” in India due to habitat loss and degradation.
