Habitat and nest use by hoary-bellied squirrels ( Callosciurus pygerythrus ): preliminary observations in central Nepal

The squirrels are among the least studied small mammals in Nepal. The present study aims to provide baseline information such as number of individuals, habitat and nest use in different time periods for hoary-bellied squirrels in central Nepal. During September–October 2018, we used 24 line transects to record squirrel sightings, nesting sites and environmental parameters. We observed a total of 39 squirrels, and their presence was correlated to low altitude, roads, and to a lesser extent, agriculture land and bodies of water. High use of human-dominated landscapes may increase conflict with humans with negative results to its conservation in future. Moreover, squirrels were mainly active in the morning and used tall bamboo and oak trees with extended crowns for nesting sites. These tree features most likely provide food and safety against predators. Data from the study is valuable to make a better understanding of the species ecology and will help in future management practice.