Earlier this week I recounted my harrowing encounter with an Eastern Gray Squirrel. Today we are going to talk about another squirrel that I don’t think could frighten me. Perhaps it is the stripes that makes them less fearful. The Indian Palm Squirrel is about 20 cm long and weighs about 100 grams. To check out this squirrel we need to head to India, Sri Lanka or Western Australia. Just so you know these little squirrels only naturally occur in India and Sri Lanka. They were introduced to Australia and have become a minor nuisance since they don’t have any natural predators to keep them in check.
They aren’t the biggest animals in the forest which is probably why the Indian Palm Squirrel feeds mostly on fruits and nuts. Although they will also supplement their diet with yummy tasting insects. I am really tempted to start eating insects considering how many animals out there love to feed on them. They must be delicious! The first person to try feeding solely on insects for a week will get 50000 Wild Fact Points!
Some squirrels are smart and tend to hibernate in the winter but this particular squirrel is not one of them. Nope, they prefer to tough it out although they won’t leave the nice warm, comfy nest until the afternoon sun is shining. To tell you the truth, I think I might try this method next winter. Sorry boss! I can’t make it in until the sun is high in the sky. Do you think he will go for it?
I think I will keep today’s fact short and sweet but before I go here is one last fact, well sort of!
Indian Palm Squirrel Fast Fact – An old Hindu legend explains how the Indian Palm Squirrel received the 3 stripes across its back. Basically, this squirrel helped Lord Rama and Vanara Sena build a bridge. The squirrel would roll in the sand and then run over to the bridge site and shake all the sand off. Lord Rama was very impressed with the dedication of the Indian Palm Squirrel and left 3 stripes across his back as he petted him. It is important to note that this association with Lord Rama could be part of the reason that squirrels are considered sacred in India. Can any readers validate this legend?
Cute squirrel and I like the legend about the stripes. I visited India in 1997 for ten days and don’t remember seeing squirrels. I’m hoping I’ll get back in Nov for 6 months…I’ll look for them!
Hi Carmen!
You will definitely have to keep me posted if you happen to see any squirrels (or any other wildlife for that matter) during your upcoming trip to India.
I am sure a 6 month trip in India would be amazing. You must be excited to get going!
I wonder if they are at all related to the chipmunks that we have in Canada. All our chipmunks have stripes whereas our squirrels don’t.
Hi Mom and Dad,
The Indian Palm Squirrel, the Eastern Chipmunk, the Red Squirrel and even my frightening Eastern Gray Squirrel are all part of the same family, Scuridae. Obviously they are all different species but they definitely related somewhere along the lines.
I bet that would be one “nutty” family reunion!
Bugs are a great source of protein. I highly recommend them.
But then, I’m a cat.
hahahaha! I thought cats just chased the bugs around the house. I didn’t know they actually ate them!
I will definitely take your word for it though Sparkle. I don’t think I am going to be chowing down on some bugs anytime soon.
The legend of Lord Rama stroking the squirrel for building the bridge is common knowledge in India. All children are told this story by their elders.
What all types of fruits and nuts does it eat ?? Please, i have got one with me.