Pune: Indian Giant Squirrel Spotted During Tiger Estimation 2026 Survey In Lonavala Forests
Pune: Indian Giant Squirrel Spotted During Tiger Estimation 2026 Survey In Lonavala Forests
Pune, January 5, 2025: During the ongoing All India Tiger Estimation 2026 wildlife survey, the Indian Giant Squirrel (Shekru) — Maharashtra’s state animal — was sighted in the Pune Forest Division, marking an important indicator of the region’s forest health and biodiversity.
The survey, which commenced on January 1, 2026, is being conducted across all forest ranges of the Pune Forest Division to assess the presence and estimated population of tigers, leopards and other wildlife through systematic tracking of animal signs.
On January 5, 2026, at around 7.45 am, the Indian Giant Squirrel was spotted along a transect line near the Tiger Point tourist area at Mauje Aatvan while animal census activities were underway. The sighting was officially recorded by Forest Guard Ganesh Mehetre of Lonavala and Forest Watcher Krishna Dethe of Aatvan, who were part of the survey team at the time.
The Indian Giant Squirrel, known for inhabiting tall, dense and biodiversity-rich forests, is considered a key indicator species. Its presence reflects the ecological richness and environmental stability of a forest area. Living primarily in the upper canopies of large trees, the species plays a vital role in seed dispersal, thereby contributing significantly to forest regeneration.
Under the Tiger Estimation 2026 programme, forest officials are documenting not only tiger and leopard signs but also sightings and evidence of other wildlife species. The recorded presence of the Indian Giant Squirrel in the Pune Forest Division is being seen as a positive sign for local biodiversity and habitat quality. Similar sightings have earlier been reported in the Maval region as well.
The incident highlights the ecological importance of the Lonavala forest region, which serves as a crucial wildlife habitat alongside being a popular tourist destination. Forest officials expect the subsequent phases of the survey to provide more detailed insights into the status of wildlife and overall forest health in the area.
