Species · GBIF taxon 2437397
Prevost's Squirrel
Callosciurus prevostiiAlso known as Asian Tri-coloured Squirrel, Prevost's Tri-colored Squirrel, Beautiful Squirrel
Prevost's squirrels are striking, tri-colored rodents that spend almost their entire lives high in the forest canopy. They are active during the day, leaping agilely between branches to forage for wild fruits, seeds, and occasional insects. These squirrels play a vital ecological role as seed dispersers, helping to regenerate the diverse tropical rainforests they inhabit.
DiurnalArborealColorful
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Figs
- Oil palm fruit
- Ants
Predators
- Raptors
- Tree snakes
- Clouded leopards
ThreatsHabitat loss from logging and agriculture, and hunting for the pet trade
HabitatsTropical rainforests, peat swamp forests, plantations, and gardens
Life spanTypically 5 to 8 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySciuridae
- SpeciesCallosciurus prevostii
Native
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of a painful bite if cornered; observe their active foraging from a safe distance.
Responsible observation
- Look up: Scan the mid-to-upper canopy of fruiting trees, especially early in the morning when they are most active.
- Listen for vocalizations: Listen for their loud, bird-like chatter and scolding calls used to defend territories.
- Watch the ground: Keep an eye on fallen fruit, as they sometimes drop partially eaten figs while feeding.
Co-occurring Species JJ Harrison (https://www.jjharrison.com.au/) / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) Huey, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
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