Abstract
Feeding behavior of red-bellied tree squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) was observed February 1976–February 1982 on Tomogashima Island, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The squirrels ate mostly plant matter (99%), especially seeds (59%). They used 36 plant species, but the three most heavily used foods accounted for 51% of feeding time, and only 14 items exceeded 1% of feeding time. Food items changed seasonally, a year divisible into three food seasons: camellia (Camellia japonica) flowers January–March, young leaves of any species in April and May, and fruits June–December. Young leaves and camellia flowers, rather than hoarded food, were used during the nonfruiting season (January–April). Absence of hoarding behavior possibly is attributable to introduction of squirrels to a new environment and absence of some particular plant species to hoard.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
