india-VI

 INDIAN ANIMALS

 Indian palm squirrel

 

The Indian Palm Squirrel is about 20 cm long and weighs about 100 grams. these little squirrels only naturally occur in India and Sri Lanka. They were introduced to Australia and have become a minor nuisance since they don’t have any natural predators to keep them in check.
the Indian Palm Squirrel feeds mostly on fruits and nuts.  Although they will also supplement their diet with yummy tasting insects. Some squirrels are smart and tend to hibernate in the winter but this particular squirrel is not one of them. they won’t leave the nice warm, comfy nest until the afternoon sun is shining. 

An old Hindu legend explains how the Indian Palm Squirrel received the 3 stripes across its back.  Basically, this squirrel helped Lord Rama and Vanara Sena build a bridge. The squirrel would roll in the sand and then run over to the bridge site and shake all the sand off.  Lord Rama was very impressed with the dedication of the Indian Palm Squirrel and left 3 stripes across his back as he petted him. It is important to note that this association with Lord Rama could be part of the reason that squirrels are considered sacred in India.  Can any readers validate this legend?

 Indian Animals

 

 
These are art works by an Indian artist, Smutesh Mishra of Cuttack, Odisha, India who letters to create works of art. I personally think its amazing how he forms the letters of his language into works of arts.