A rare Giant Malabar Squirrel has been spotted in the Devpur forest area of Chhattisgarh’s Barnawapara forest. The sighting took place during the Devpur Summer Camp 2026 organised by the Balodabazar Forest Division. The rare animal’s presence in the forest has once again highlighted the rich biodiversity of the Barnawapara landscape and the improving condition of its natural habitat.
Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap congratulated the forest department team after the sighting. He said that the appearance of the species reflects the impact of continuous efforts made towards wildlife protection and conservation of forest ecosystems in the state.
According to forest officials, the summer camp was organised between May 16 and May 22. The squirrel was spotted on May 16 during a birdwatching trail conducted in the Devpur forest area. The species was identified by nature enthusiast and cyber risk expert Hemant Verma.
Scientifically known as Ratufa indica, the Giant Malabar Squirrel is among the largest tree-dwelling squirrels found in India. Including its tail, the animal can grow up to nearly three feet in length. The squirrel is known for its striking appearance, with patches of reddish-brown, black, cream and dark maroon across its body.
It spends almost its entire life on trees and can leap remarkable distances between branches with ease. The species is protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, making hunting or trade involving the animal a punishable offence.
Divisional Forest Officer Dhammshil Ganveer said that the Barnawapara sanctuary and nearby forest areas continue to support a wide variety of wildlife species. He said the sighting of the Giant Malabar Squirrel is a positive sign for the forest ecosystem in Devpur.
For children and young participants attending the camp, the experience turned into an unexpected lesson in wildlife conservation. Forest officials said such sightings help build awareness among the younger generation about the importance of protecting forests and preserving biodiversity.