Sri Lanka Giant Squirrel (Ratufa Macroura)

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Sinhalese: Dandulena

Tamil: Mali’anil

Description: There are three races of this squirrel, each differing in color and size. The largest is the Highland Grizzled Squirrel, and has an overall length of up to 81cm. the next is a black and yellow giant squirrel which is similar in color to the one above but is pure black with no frizzling, and has an overall length of up to 78 cm. the smallest is the Common Giant Squirrel which is also depicted and has an overall length of up to 70 cm.

Distribution: Found in the forests and jungles throughout the island. The Highland Grizzled Squirrel is found in the higher mountains, the Black and Yellow Giant Squirrel frequents the remaining wet zone and the Common Giant Squirrel is found in the low country dry zone.

Habits: These squirrels are entirely arboreal and diurnal, and are most active during the early mornings and late afternoons. They are found singly or in pairs and have their own territories where they build 4 or 5 of their large nests. They have excellent eye-sight and smell, but do not seem to have very acute hearing. Their food consists of leaves, bark, fruits, berries, nuts and possibly, insects, grubs and bird’s eggs. They probably live for 5 or 6 years.

Breeding: Not much is known apart from the fact that usually one young is born in a large nest or ‘dray’ which is constructed of twigs and leaves and lined with green leaves and fibres. This is placed high in heavily foliaged trees. 

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