Identification:
The Red-bellied Squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus) weighs 0.2 – 0.3 kg, with a body length of 200 – 260 mm and a tail length of 200 mm. It has an elongated, cylindrical body of moderate size. The two subspecies found in Vietnam exhibit considerable variation in coat color. Callosciurus erythraeus erythraeus, distributed in the North, and Callosciurus erythraeus flavimantus, found in the South, both typically have an olive-tinged dorsal coloration and a reddish-tinged belly. The legs of Callosciurus erythraeus flavimantus are paler than the belly, and the snout is paler than the back.
Biology and Ecology:
This species is arboreal, inhabiting evergreen and mixed deciduous forests from foothills to plains, even in heavily disturbed forest areas. Their diet consists of fruits found within their habitat. They build nests in tree hollows, and typically give birth to litters of 2 – 4 young, which are born blind.
Distribution:
Found in most forested provinces throughout Vietnam, from north to south, at altitudes up to 800m. They also inhabit secondary forests, restored forests, coastal areas, and near mangrove forests.
Conservation Status:
The population of this species is relatively small in the wild, and it is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are needed to address overhunting and to potentially include this species in the Vietnam Red List.