What is a rat-squirrel called? - briefly
The animal commonly referred to as a rat‑squirrel is a ground squirrel, a member of the genus Spermophilus (or related genera). It is also known by the scientific name Sciurillus pusillus for the African pygmy squirrel, which shares the same colloquial label.
What is a rat-squirrel called? - in detail
The creature known colloquially as a rat‑squirrel belongs to the family Sciuridae and is scientifically identified as Sciurus niger for the eastern gray squirrel, while the term “rat‑squirrel” is most often applied to the African striped ground squirrel (Xerus erythropus) and the Asian giant flying squirrel (Petaurista magnificus). These species share a squirrel‑like morphology combined with a rodent’s elongated body and tail, which explains the hybrid nickname.
Taxonomic placement
- Order: Rodentia
- Family: Sciuridae
- Genera frequently linked to the nickname: Xerus, Petaurista, Sciurus
Geographic range
- Xerus erythropus: savannas and open woodlands of sub‑Saharan Africa.
- Petaurista magnificus: mountainous forests of Southeast Asia, especially in Myanmar, Thailand, and China.
- Sciurus niger: eastern United States and parts of Canada.
Physical characteristics
- Body length: 20–35 cm; tail length: 15–30 cm, often bushy.
- Fur coloration varies from reddish‑brown (ground squirrel) to gray‑black (flying squirrel).
- Large incisors adapted for gnawing hard seeds and bark.
Behavioral traits
- Primarily diurnal (ground squirrel) or nocturnal (flying squirrel).
- Ground-dwelling species construct extensive burrow systems; arboreal relatives nest in tree cavities or construct leaf nests.
- Diet includes nuts, fruits, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates.
Reproductive facts
- Breeding season typically spans spring to early summer.
- Litter size ranges from 2 to 5 offspring; gestation period averages 30 days.
Conservation status
- Most populations are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though habitat loss threatens localized groups, especially in rapidly deforested regions of Southeast Asia.
In summary, the label “rat‑squirrel” refers to several squirrel species that exhibit rodent‑like proportions and habits. Accurate identification requires reference to scientific names, which clarify the distinct taxa encompassed by this informal term.