Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
Habitat
This species primarily inhabits tropical rainforests and mixed dipterocarp forests in Borneo, preferring lowland and montane areas up to 1,000 meters elevation. It thrives in dense vegetation with plenty of trees for climbing and ground cover for foraging, avoiding open or heavily disturbed areas.
Diet
The Tufted ground squirrel feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, and nuts from forest trees, supplemented by insects, bird eggs, and occasionally small vertebrates. It forages both on the ground and in trees, often during the early morning and late afternoon, using its sharp incisors to crack open hard shells.
Behavior
Tufted ground squirrels are primarily diurnal and arboreal, spending much of their time climbing trees and foraging, though they also dig burrows for shelter. They are generally solitary or live in pairs, defending small territories with vocal calls and chases, and they are known for their agility in evading threats. During the rainy season, they may become less active to conserve energy.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Tufted ground squirrel as Least Concern, with a stable population trend, though habitat loss from deforestation poses a potential threat in parts of Borneo.