The Northen Palm Squirrel (Five Stripped Palm Squirrel)
- Distribution: Northern and central India, parts of Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh
- Habitat: Urban areas, forests, gardens, agricultural lands
- Diet: Fruits, nuts, seeds, insects, small vertebrates
- Size: Approximately 20 cm (including tail)
Appearance:
- It has a small and slender body, typically measuring about 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) in length, excluding its tail.
- The fur color varies, but it generally has a mixture of shades including gray, brown, and sometimes reddish hues.
- It is distinguished by five dark stripes running along its back, although the number of stripes can vary.
Habitat:
- The Northern Palm Squirrel is adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats including urban areas, gardens, parks, and forests.
- It is often seen near human settlements, where it scavenges for food.
Behavior:
- It is diurnal and active during the day.
- As its name suggests, it frequently inhabits palm trees and other vegetation, using them for shelter and nesting.
- Its diet is omnivorous, consisting of seeds, fruits, nuts, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates.
Distribution:
- Found across South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
- Its adaptability to various habitats has contributed to its widespread distribution.