African palm squirrel

rodent

Also known as: Epixerus

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

The African palm squirrel is a type of rodent belonging to the squirrel family (Sciuridae). While the term "squirrel" often brings to mind tree-dwelling species, the African palm squirrel is described as a ground-dwelling squirrel, often conspicuously marked with white and found in drier parts of Africa. Merriam-Webster defines a palm squirrel more broadly as a small tree squirrel of India, Funambulus palmarum, characterized by three broad white stripes down its back. Squirrels, in general, are known for their bushy tails and are found in various ecological niches worldwide. Their diet is varied, including nuts, fruits, seeds, fungi, insects, and sometimes even bird eggs or carrion.1234

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squirrel
Natural history
The African palm squirrels (genus Epixerus) are long-legged runners that forage only on the ground. Certain species, such as the red-tailed squirrel (S. granatensis) of the American tropics and the African pygmy squirrel, are active from ground to canopy. In the United States, the Eastern fox…
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The African palm squirrels (genus Epixerus) are long-legged runners that forage only on the ground. Certain species, such as the red-tailed squirrel (S. granatensis) of the American tropics and the African pygmy squirrel, are active from ground to canopy. In the United States, the Eastern fox…
Read More