Rediscovery’ of endangered Namdapha Flying Squirrel

Context: Missing for 42 years, the Namdapha flying squirrel resurfaces in Arunachal Pradesh.

• The Namdapha flying squirrel was last described in 1981 based on a single individual found in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh. 

About Namdapha Flying Squirrel

• Namdapha Flying Squirrel: It is an arboreal, nocturnal flying squirrel endemic to Arunachal Pradesh. 
  • As the Namdapha flying squirrel has rarely been recorded, there is little information available regarding its biology or ecology, but it is likely to be similar to other flying squirrels. 
• Scientific Name: Biswamoyopterus Biswasi.
• Population and Habitat: No population estimate is available for B. biswasi, but the known habitat is tall Mesua ferrea jungles, often located on hill slopes. 
• IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered.
• Threats: Threatened by habitat loss and degradation caused by shifting agriculture, extraction of non-timber forest products, etc.
• About Flying Squirrels: All flying squirrels are nocturnal, possibly because their gliding membrane hinders their movement, and thus darkness gives them extra protection from predatory birds
  • The membrane does allow an effective escape from flightless tree predators. 

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News Source: TH