PIONEER EDG ENEWS SERVICE/ Bageshwar
In a rare wildlife sighting, a flying squirrel has been spotted in the forests of Chandak near Pithoragarh, something which has enthused nature lovers and locals alike. A local cyclist called Anil Mahara managed to capture photographs of this elusive mammal. The visuals show the squirrel perched high on a tree in the dense forest.
Explaining the differences between an ordinary squirrel and a flying squirrel, a wildlife observer said that while the former only runs and jumps, the latter possess a thin, flexible membrane stretched between their legs. “By spreading this membrane, they could glide from one tree to another. They, however, do not fly like birds, but rather move through the air in a smooth gliding motion,” he added.
Asked about the key features of flying squirrels, he said that they could glide up to nearly 100 metres. “They are mostly active during the night hours while they remain hidden high in trees during the day. They prefer dense and mixed forests for habitat,” he added.
Commenting on the rare sighting, the forest ranger, Pithoragarh, Dinesh Joshi said that this is an encouraging indication of this range’s rich biodiversity. “Such sensitive species are generally found only in relatively undisturbed and ecologically healthy environments,” he added.
Clicking photographs of such nocturnal fliers who are mainly found in the dense forests of the Himalayan region is also considered a special feat.
The Chandak region of Pithoragarh is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife variety and richness and the presence of the flying squirrel has further enhanced the ecological importance of the area, say wildlife observers.
