Satheesh Muthu Gopal
The Nilgiri Striped Squirrel (Funambulus sublineatus) is endemic to the Southern Western Ghats. Members of this genus (family) are found in India and Sri Lanka and can be identified by their dorsal stripes. They are diurnal and are often seen foraging either on the ground or on trees during the day. Habitat loss and deforestation remain their top threats.
This individual was found in Palani Hills foraging at dusk near a small waterfall, visited by tourists. However, like most popular tourist destinations, one can see plastic waste irresponsibly littered either on the side of the road or in forest streams where these squirrels forage.
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