Common name: Indian Palm Squirrel
Scientific name: Funambulus palmarum
Family: Sciuridae

Size:
Body length: 16–20 cm
Tail length: 15–20 cm
Weight: 100–200 g

Identification:
A small, slender squirrel with a bushy tail and a distinctive pattern of three pale stripes running along its back from head to tail. The body is grey-brown, and the stripes are typically creamy white. The face is pointed with small rounded ears and dark, alert eyes. The tail is often carried arched over the back.

Habitat:
Urban areas, gardens, parks, plantations, and open woodlands. Strongly associated with palm trees and human-modified environments.

Status in the UAE:
Introduced and established. Common in cities and green areas, especially in parks and residential zones.

Diet:
Omnivorous — feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, grains, insects, and food scraps.

Behavior:
Diurnal and highly active. Often seen climbing trees, running along branches, or on the ground. Social and vocal, producing high-pitched calls. Builds nests in trees using leaves and twigs. Well adapted to living near humans.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)