There are six species of Squirrel in Sri Lanka. The Palm Squirrel (Funambulus palmarum) is found in large numbers all over the country and the Sri Lanka Giant Squirrel (Ratufa macroura – above) is found anywhere there are wooded areas.
The two species of flying Squirrel (Petaurista philippensis and Petinomys fuscocapillus) are arboreal as well and are found in the hill and mountain forests.
Two small and less common squirrels are seen only in the wet zone rainforests – the Flame-striped Jungle Squirrel (Funambulus layardi) and the Dusky-striped Squirrel (Funambulus obscurus).
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The Sri Lankan Giant Squirrel uses its experienced and delicate nose to find fresh fruit and decide whether it has ripened enough to eat.
A Palm Squirrel (Funambulus palmarum) and a Ring-necked Parakeet sharing a meal in The Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka.
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