Squirrels of Rajasthan with special reference to elliot's giant flying squirrel petaurista petaurista Philippensis

Abstract

The chapter is based on a detailed study of the squirrels of Rajasthan. Three species of squirrels are con fi ned to Rajasthan, namely, Common Palm Squirrel and Five-striped Palm Squirrel which are arboreal and terrestrial in nature and the Elliot's Giant Flying Squirrel or Large Brown Flying Squirrel which is an important nocturnal arboreal rodent. Elliot's Giant Flying Squirrel has been recorded from dense forests of Phulwari, Sitamata, and Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuaries and avoids agricultural fi elds, grasslands, and human settlements. It is the next giant rodent after Porcupine in the state which was initially believed to be confined to Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary only, but during recent years, this species has been reported from the southern part of the state. The practice of keeping dried body, bones, and hair of these squirrels by the tribal community known as bhils fi nds a mention in this chapter. In addition, another belief of the tribal that tying pieces of squirrel bones around the neck of underweight infants and fumigating with burning hairs of squirrel will bring good health to them has also been discussed. Protection of old Mahuwa (Madhuca indica) groves and planting of new Mahuwa trees in the distribution range of flying squirrel and awareness programs in tribal zones have been suggested to protect this species. “Arampura Flying Squirrel Watching Point” of Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary in Udaipur district and “Thala Flying Squirrel Watching Point” of Phulwari Wildlife Sanctuary are regarded as major prospective tourist centers.