Provost Squirrel

Callosciurus

These squirrels are a very colorful species of rodent found in the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Bonero. They live in lowland and montane forests, the can be found in gardens and plantations as well. Another common name for th prevost squirrel is the asian tri-colored squirrel. The top of the head, back, and tail are jet-black or brownish, the underparts are reddish-brown, and a white line separates the two colors. Their tails are usually flat and has short hair. The average size of an adult squirrel is a little less than 1 foot, with a tail of 3 to 10 inches, weighing under 1 lb.

Prevost squirrels are arboreal mammals, they have become well adapted to life in the trees, they excel at climbing and jumping. They have toes with sharp claws that help them cling to tree trunks. When climbing and running around the tail can help these animals keep their balance, it can also act as a rudder when they jump. When on the ground, they move with graceful leaps, often pausing and poking their heads up to look around. When foraging they’ll look for fruit, nuts, seeds, nuds, flowers, insects, and bird eggs to eat. They will typically live a solitary life or in a small family group. This species is crepuscular, meaning they are mainly active at dusk and dawn. They have been observed wrapping their tails around themselves for warmth when they are sleeping.