FACE OF THE WEEK #1

This is the Indian Palm Squirrel (Funambulus palmarum) also known as Three-Striped Palm Squirrel, a species of rodent .

As the name suggests, it is found in India and Sri Lanka. Recently, the Palm Squirrel got accidentally introduced into Western Australia where it is said to have become a minor pest due to the lack of natural predators.

On their greyish-brown back, there are five conspicuous white stripes, three of which run from head to tail. The two outer stripes run from the forelegs to the hind legs. They have a pale white belly and a bushy tail with long black and white fur.
They do not hibernate in the winters. They are often seem scampering around in search of food, mostly nuts and fruits, around afternoon in the bright sunlight.


An interesting Hindu Mythological story is related to this animal. It is believed that this squirrel put in a helping hand when a Hindu Demi-God, Rama was building a bridge across the Ocean to rescue his kidnapped queen. Rama, in appreciation stroked its back and his finger marks remain till today in the form of the stripes on the squirrel’s back!!!

Love,