Grizzled giant squirrel (Ratufa macroura)

Species information

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Threats

The grizzled giant squirrel is hunted for food and for its fur by forest-dwelling people, and an increasing local human population has caused even the activities of the forest people to become destructive. Habitat degradation has resulted in the thinning of the canopy which makes the grizzled giant squirrel more vulnerable to predation by the black eagle and other aerial predators (2).

Conservation

The grizzled giant squirrel is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, preventing international trade in this species without a permit, but little other conservation action has been targeted at this species (3). With just 300 individuals remaining in southern India, and only one protected area (Shenbagathope Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary), it has been suggested that a second protected area be designated in Alagarkoil Valley. Planting native tree species to promote canopy continuity and ensure the availability of food plants and nesting sites has also been recommended (4).