Sciurus pucheranii (Fitzinger, 1867)

Scientific Naming and Body Proportion

The Andean squirrel, scientifically named Sciurus pucheranii, is a typical tree squirrel that generally resembles the North American Eastern grey squirrel in overall body proportions, but is much smaller.

Body Length

Its body length is around 14 centimetres (5.5 in), while its tail measures between 12 and 16 centimetres (4.7 to 6.3 in).

Weight

Few weight records exist, but most individuals are thought to weigh between 100 and 140 grams (3.5 and 4.9 oz).

Body Fur Coloration

Most of its body is covered in soft, silky, reddish-brown fur, which transitions to greyish-yellow on the underparts.

Tail Fur Coloration

The fur of its tail is darker than the fur on its body.

Distinctive Markings

Some Andean squirrels have a distinctive dark stripe along their flanks, and may also have a black patch on the back of the head.

Female Morphology

Female Andean squirrels have six teats.

Habitat Range and Elevation

This species lives in montane rain forest and cloud forest in the Cordillera Occidental and Cordillera Central of the Colombian Andes, at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,300 metres (6,600 to 10,800 ft).

Arboreal Habitat

As a tree squirrel, it dwells among Cecropia trees, palms, and tree ferns.

Activity Pattern and Conservation Status

It is thought to be diurnal, but too little is currently known about its behavior, population status, and habitat needs, so the IUCN currently lists it as data deficient.