The Namdapha Flying Squirrel, missing for four decades, has resurfaced in Arunachal Pradesh. It was last documented in 1981.
Key points
- This nocturnal flying squirrel is indigenous to the Changlang district and endemic to Arunachal Pradesh, specifically the Namdapha National Park.
- It was initially discovered in the Mesua Ferrea jungles bordering the Noa Dihing river in Arunachal Pradesh, an area now covered by Namdapha National Park.
- The Namdapha Flying Squirrel is often confused with the Red Giant Flying Squirrel, another species found in the region.
- The Namdapha Flying Squirrel has reddish grizzled fur with white markings.
- The squirrel is among the ‘25 most wanted lost species’ identified by the Global Wildlife Conservation’s Search for Lost Species initiative.
- Additionally, it is protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and is classified as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List.
- Out of the 43 recognized flying squirrel species worldwide, the Namdapha Flying Squirrel is one.
