Cannibalism of Indian Palm Squirrel (Funambulus palmarum[/i)

Abstract

The palm squirrel is one of the common small mammals in Sri Lanka and the Indian Palm Squirrel ([i]Funambulus palmarum) is the commonest of all being distributed throughout the island. All palm squirrels are essentially herbivores, however diet varies depending on the species. F. palmarum has a broad, opportunistic diet, consuming a range of foods that vary depending on season. Its diet includes nuts, a range of seeds, fruits, flowers, young shoots, barks, lichens and it occasionally eats insects such as termites and beetles.