Context: The Namdapha flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterus biswasi) has reappeared in Arunachal Pradesh esurfaced in Arunachal Pradesh after going missing for 42 years.

About Namdapha flying squirrel

• The Namdapha flying squirrel is an arboreal and nocturnal species endemic to Arunachal Pradesh, India.

• Known from a single specimen collected in Namdapha National Park in 1981, it inhabits tall Mesua ferrea jungles, primarily on hill slopes in the Dihing River catchment area.

• The Namdapha flying squirrel is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN, with no population estimate available.

• Its range may be restricted to a single valley, and the species faces threats from poaching for food within Namdapha National Park and potential habitat destruction.

• The species is one of the 25 "most wanted lost" species, drawing attention as part of Re:wild's "Search for Lost Species" initiative.

Features

• It has reddish, grizzled fur with white above.

• Its crown is pale grey, its patagium is orangish and its underparts are white.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

• Wildlife Protection Act Status: Schedule II

Threats: Threatened by poaching and possibly habitat destruction