TODAY -
Flying squirrel sighted in Shirui forest
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, July 19 2025:
A rare, endangered flying squirrel, characterised by its prominent elongated white tufted ears and be lieved to be of significant scientific importance, has been documented in the deep forests surrounding Shirui village in Ukhrul district.
The discovery marks a positive impact of grassroots-level conservation, especially the initiative by local villagers to ban hunting.
The sighting was confirmed in the course of a documentation undertaken by a local NGO Environmental Force at Grass Root Level (ENFOGAL), in collaboration with Ukhrul-based wildlife photographers Horzak Zimik and Chuimaran Shangh.
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The core team involved in the documentation included ENFOGAL project director Patrick Shangh, WTI field officer Chingrisoror Rumthao, wildlife photographers Horzak and Chuimaran, and local guide Pamreithing Luireiwo.
"This is a moment of pride and proof that when communities take charge of conservation, nature responds," stated Patrick, acknowledging the active involvement of Shirui villagers, who collectively decided to prohibit hunting, creating a safer environment for local wildlife to flourish.
Wildlife photographers Horzak and Chuimaran played a pivotal role in capturing images of the species.
"It was surreal to witness such a rare species in our forest," stated Horzak, adding, "It felt like nature was rewarding our patience and respect".
Echoing this sentiment, Chuimaran said, "Being able to capture this moment through my lens is not just a personal achievement - it's a call for all of us to protect what's still left".
According to Patrick, local guide Pamreithing, known for his traditional ecological knowledge and deep understanding of wildlife behaviour, was instrumental in pinpointing the squirrel's location within its natural habitat.
"With the formal endorsement of the Shirui village authority, the ENFOGAL team, along with Horzak and Chuimaran, will now undertake detailed studies on the flying squirrel's habitat, diet, and behaviour," revealed Patrick, adding that the findings will be shared with experts and institutions for further research and potential scientific classification.
"We believe the squirrel could be from the Biswamoyopterus genus," he opined.
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