Callosciurus prevostii (Desmarest, 1822)

Nomenclature

Prevost's squirrel, also called the Asian tri-coloured squirrel, has the scientific name Callosciurus prevostii. It is a colourful rodent species that belongs to the squirrel family Sciuridae.

Native Distribution

This species occurs naturally in forests of the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and nearby smaller islands.

Introduced Population

An introduced population of Prevost's squirrel also lives in northern Sulawesi.

Conservation Status

While the species is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and hunting, it is not classified as threatened, as it remains generally common and widespread across its range.

Habitat Tolerance

It is able to survive in moderately disturbed habitats, and frequently enters plantations or gardens.

Diet

Its diet consists mostly of plant material, particularly fruits, but it also eats insects.