Black-striped Squirrel

Fascinating facts about the Black-striped Squirrel

• In Malaysia's Krau Wildlife Reserve the black-striped squirrel occurs at a density of just five individuals per 100 ha, yet a single female in the nearby Ulu Gombak Forest Reserve may defend a home range anywhere from 1-4 ha (or about 2 ha by another estimate).
• Between 1948 and 1952 researchers recorded pregnant black-striped squirrels every month in Ulu Gombak, with peaks in April-June (20 % of pregnancies) and lows in October-December (8 %). Litters ranged from one to four young, averaging about two per birth across 23 litters.
• When a ground predator appears, the black-striped squirrel emits a repeated staccato bark and flicks its tail, prompting nearby squirrels to scramble up trees and fall silent. Against aerial threats it gives a soft "chuckle" if unthreatened, or a sharp "rattle" during close encounters, causing others to freeze or join the rattle. If a snake is spotted, it lets out a squeak that rallies squirrels of up to three species to mob the reptile.
• A black-striped squirrel's body measures just 184-199 mm from head to rump, its tail adds another 159-182 mm, and it weighs only 202-239 g.
• The black-striped squirrel lives in the canopy and under-canopy of both primary and secondary forests, but in Malaysia it is roughly twice as common in disturbed areas than in less-disturbed sites.

At a glance

About the Black-striped Squirrel

In the dappled light of the tropical forest, the black-striped squirrel dances through the trees, its agile form weaving a mesmerizing trail of movement as it chases the sun's warm rays. With each nimble leap, its distinctive black stripes seem to shimmer and come alive, as if infused with the very essence of the forest's vitality. As it pauses to survey its realm, the squirrel's bright, inquisitive eyes sparkle like jewels, illuminating the secret world of this forest dweller.

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