DEHRADUN: A rare sighting of the Indian giant flying squirrel has been reported in Ranikhet, a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand. This is the first time the nocturnal creature has been spotted in the region, and its appearance has been hailed as a good omen by locals.
The Indian giant flying squirrel is listed in Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Renowned nature and wildlife photographer Kamal Goswami captured a stunning image of the creature in Ranikhet.
"I consider it a privilege to have spotted this rare species. Locals believe its appearance is a good sign," Goswami told TNIE.
When he spotted the squirrel again on Wednesday, he informed the forest department. "Upon receiving the information, the department swiftly rescued the squirrel and released it back into the wild," officials confirmed.
Goswami, a serving Uttarakhand police officer and an avid naturalist, shared his insights on the rare Indian giant flying squirrel with TNIE. "This mysterious and rare creature, although resembling a squirrel, is distinct from the common squirrel," Goswami said.
"It glides between trees but does not fly," Goswami explained. "Its primary diet consists of fruits, seeds, flowers, tender leaves, and insects. The creature reproduces only once a year, giving birth to 1-3 young ones at a time," he added.
Goswami, a keen naturalist, shared his expertise on the Indian giant flying squirrel with The New Indian Express. "By consuming fruits and dispersing seeds, the squirrel facilitates the growth of new plants," he explained.
"It also feeds on small insects, while becoming prey for owls, snakes, and wild cats. This highlights its crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem balance," Goswami added.
He highlighted the squirrel's distinctive characteristics: "Despite its name, the Indian giant flying squirrel doesn't actually fly, but rather glides between trees. A thin membrane stretching from its neck to tail is its most notable feature, enabling it to cover long distances."
Goswami provided further details on the squirrel's physical attributes: "Its body measures 30-45 cm in length, with a fluffy tail extending up to 40-50 cm. It can weigh between 1.5 to 2 kilograms."