Flying Squirrel Rediscovered After 42 Years

22 Dec 2023

Flying Squirrel Rediscovered After 42 Years

The Namdapha flying squirrel, once believed extinct, has astonishingly reappeared in Arunachal Pradesh's dense forests. This remarkable find, emerging after 42 years, showcases nature's enduring strength and conservationists' relentless dedication.

In this story, the Namdapha flying squirrel, or Biswamoyopterus biswasi, represents more than a rediscovered species. It weaves a complex tale, blending biodiversity, conservation endeavors, and the hurdles faced in wildlife research.
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The Historical Context and Mysterious Disappearance

Last Official Record in 1981: The Namdapha flying squirrel graced the dense forests of the Namdapha Tiger Reserve for the last time in 1981. This area, sprawling over 1,985 sq. km. in Arunachal Pradesh's Changlang district, was its known habitat. Imagine a solitary squirrel, unique in its features, making its final documented appearance before slipping into the shadows for decades.
 	Speculations and Confusions: Following its disappearance, confusion arose. Many believed the Namdapha flying squirrel was simply a misidentified red giant flying squirrel, a species sharing its habitat. Picture two squirrels, similar in appearance, darting through the trees - one common, the other rare, leading to a case of mistaken identity that puzzled zoologists for years.

Persistent Expeditions and the Breakthrough Discovery

Decades of Search Efforts: Over forty years, teams, especially from Aaranyak, embarked on challenging expeditions. These conservationists combed the reserve's vastness, akin to searching for a needle in a haystack, trying to find a species not seen since 1981. Their dedication spanned 79 days in 2021 alone, a testament to their commitment.
 	Triumphant Sighting in 2022: In April 2022, a breakthrough occurred. A team led by Dr. Firoz Ahmed, with Sourav Gupta, Sourav Mardi, and Tajum Yomcha, sighted the elusive squirrel. They conducted nocturnal searches near rivers, and their efforts paid off when they spotted a small, reddish, furry mammal high up in a tree. This moment was akin to finding a lost treasure, rekindling hope for the species' survival.

Scientific Verification and Conservation Implications

Photographic Evidence and DNA Analysis: The team's initial identification relied on photographic evidence. To solidify their discovery, they plan to compare DNA samples of the newly sighted squirrel with the 1981 specimen at the Zoological Survey of India in Kolkata. This step is like solving a genetic puzzle, linking the past with the present.
 	Conservation and Ecological Impact: The rediscovery of the Namdapha flying squirrel isn't just a win for the species but a beacon for broader conservation efforts. It highlights the Namdapha Tiger Reserve's ecological importance, demonstrating how a single species, like the squirrel, can become a symbol of hope and a rallying point for preserving biodiversity.

Final Thoughts
The Namdapha flying squirrel's return powerfully reminds us of nature's hidden wonders and wildlife's enduring strength. Moreover, this event shines as a beacon of hope. It inspires not only those invested in the squirrel's future but also conservationists globally. These dedicated individuals tirelessly safeguard our planet's rich biodiversity.

Furthermore, this remarkable rediscovery highlights the crucial need for ongoing research and conservation initiatives. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of worldwide collaboration in understanding and protecting the natural world.

Finally, in the vast landscape of wildlife conservation, the Namdapha flying squirrel's story emerges as a striking element. It brilliantly showcases how species, habitats, and human efforts intertwine, crucially maintaining our ecosystem's fragile balance.
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The Namdapha flying squirrel, once believed extinct, has astonishingly reappeared in Arunachal Pradesh’s dense forests. This remarkable find, emerging after 42 years, showcases nature’s enduring […]

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