The Flying Squirrel
1st photo of Woolly Flying Squirrel recorded in Himachal's Miyar Valley
The wildlife wing of Himachal Pradesh Forest Department (HPFD) has captured the first-ever photographic evidence of the elusive Woolly Flying Squirrel at Miyar Valley in Lahaul and Spiti district. This rare documentation was made during a camera trapping survey conducted between October 10 and December 4, 2024, a forest department spokesperson said in a statement issued on Saturday. The spokesperson said the Woolly Flying Squirrel (Eupetaurus cinereus), endemic to the north-western Himalayas, was long believed to be extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994 after a gap of nearly 70 years. The confirmation of its presence marks a noteworthy addition to the state's list of mammals and a significant milestone in wildlife conservation efforts. He said that the camera trapping survey was part of the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) initiative. The survey followed SPAI protocols and involved the installation of 62 camera traps across strategic locations in Miyar Valley.
 "1st photo of Woolly Flying Squirrel recorded in Himachal's Miyar Valley")
A fresh roast
An artisan coffee label's first cafe in Bengaluru offers a multi-sensory experience
 "A fresh roast")