Tree squirrel

Introduction: Tree squirrels can often be seen basking in the sunshine, whilst playfully sprucing themselves and each other. They live in territorial family groups and when in imminent danger from a bird of prey, they will flee to a hole in the tree, whilst whistling in 'quick succession'. They can be well-camouflaged in the shade of a tree and sometimes their presence can be indicated by the call to arms of a series of high-pitched whistles, warning of the imminent danger of a a snake or a mongoose.

Tree squirrels have often been referred to as (Smith's) bush squirrels, yellow-footed squirrels or mopane squirrels. These associations relate to its bushveld habitat, foot colouring and frequent mopane tree visitations. They spend much of the day searching for food in a very small area, with the males performing sentry duty, alarm soundings and anal and urination scent-marking rituals. They will be close to trees with suitable nesting holes, in mostly savannah woodland areas that include a wide variety of tree types

Distribution: North and south of Etosha Pan and in bushveld of the Park itself. Widespread in the rest of north-west Namibia along the Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip) and Victoria Falls.

Diet: Vegetation and insects that live in either trees or the ground. Leaves, seeds, berries, flowers, pollen, termites, ants and other insects.

Colouring: Brown fur with yellowish or buffy chest and white belly. The (carrying) tail has 2 or 3 black rings.

Breeding: Seasonal breeding starts in August and lasts for 56 days producing a litters of 1-3, normally 2. mothers give birth to their pups from October to January.

Size: Overall length 350mm including the tail (175mm).

Weight: 200g.