About Heliosciurus gambianus (Ogilby, 1835)
Scientific Nomenclature and Body Size
The Gambian sun squirrel, scientifically named Heliosciurus gambianus (Ogilby, 1835), has a head-and-body length ranging from 170 to 240 mm (6.7 to 9.4 in), and a tail length between 180 and 260 mm (7.1 to 10.2 in).
Pelage Coloration
Its fur, called pelage, varies in color but is typically greyish with a grizzled look. It has a paler grey ring surrounding each eye, and its throat and underparts are also pale.
Tail Pattern
The tail has distinct black and white rings, with approximately fourteen rings total.
Geographical Range
Across tropical Africa, the Gambian sun squirrel can be found; its range stretches from Senegal and the Gambia east to Ethiopia and Kenya, with a separate isolated population located further south in Angola and Tanzania.
Natural Habitat
This squirrel lives in wooded savanna and other types of grassland with scattered trees.
Movement Behavior
It moves through tree branches, but will sometimes descend to the ground.
Anthropogenic Habitat Use
It also lives in plantations and other cultivated areas.
