Sulawesi Dwarf Squirrel: A Unique Species of Indonesia

One of the creatures that always confuse me when detecting for birds are squirrels. One of the method that I use to detect birds are through movements or activities. In Tangkoko, Sulawesi Dwarf Squirrel is one that always give me a false detection of birds.

The Sulawesi dwarf squirrel (Prosciurillus murinus) is endemic to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. It primarily inhabits tropical rainforests and mountainous regions, thriving in environments ranging from lowland to higher elevations.

This species is small in size, with adults typically measuring around 30 to 40 cm in length, including a bushy tail that is nearly as long as its body. Its fur is soft and dense, often displaying a rich brown coloration with lighter underparts, providing excellent camouflage within its forested habitat.

The Sulawesi dwarf squirrel is primarily herbivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, and nuts. Its role as a seed disperser is crucial for maintaining the health of its ecosystem, facilitating forest regeneration.

These squirrels are generally solitary. 

They are diurnal, active during the day, and are known for their agility in climbing trees and jumping between branches.

Great Birding Before Breakfast at Tangkoko

Our journey to Sulawesi commenced exceptionally well, followed by a highly productive nocturnal exploration of Tangkoko Forest.

Recognizing that many of the species we might encounter here are likely endemic and found nowhere else on the planet, we opted to explore the vicinity of our homestay in search of intriguing wildlife prior to breakfast.

Before long, we observed our first endemic bird of the day: a Sulawesi Crow perched atop a bamboo pole, signaling its presence.

A movement in the brush opposite our homestay drew my attention, and upon closer inspection, I identified a bird with a greenish bill, yet another species endemic to Sulawesi.

As we proceeded to explore a river flowing behind our homestay, we spotted a Nankeen Night Heron.

Encouraged by our discoveries thus far, we were delighted to see another striking bird perched nearby on a dry tree branch: a White-necked Myna, characterized by its black plumage and broad white breast band and collar.

With the rising sun enhancing the lighting conditions, I was able to photograph an all-black Hair-crested Drongo. While this species is relatively common across many regions of Southeast Asia, the Hair-crested Drongo here is distinguished by its unique white eye, a feature not found in other areas.

A flock of Silver-tipped Imperial Pigeons arrived, easily mistaken for the similarly appearing Pied Imperial Pigeon.

The spotlight shifted to the White-faced Cuckoo-Dove, also referred to as the Sulawesi Black Pigeon, following the departure of the Silver-tipped Imperial Pigeons.

A brightly colored sunbird briefly caught my eye, and I managed to glimpse it. This sunbird bears a striking resemblance to the Ornate Sunbird or Garden Sunbird, and they are often classified as the same species, known as the Olive-backed Sunbird. However, the yellow sunbird observed here is now recognized as the Sahul Sunbird.

Just before we proceeded to breakfast, we encountered a Bay Coucal, yet another bird unique to Sulawesi.

Adorable creature of Tangkoko Nature Reserve

If your trip to Hokkaido is aimed at spotting the adorable Ezo flying squirrel, then a visit to Tangkoko Nature Reserve would be incomplete without observing the equally charming tarsier.

Tangkoko is one of the best locations in the world to see tarsiers, where ecotourism offers guided night walks to witness these creatures and other nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitats.

Tarsiers are notable for their large eyes, adapted for seeing in the dark, and their remarkable head rotation ability, which allows them to turn their heads nearly 180 degrees, making them among the most intriguing primates globally.

These small animals measure about 10 to 15 centimeters in length, with tails often longer than their bodies, aiding their movement through the dense forest canopy.

Research projects in Tangkoko have played a vital role in understanding the behavior and ecology of tarsiers, enhancing knowledge of their ecological significance.

Local communities actively participate in conservation projects, ensuring the protection of both wildlife and cultural heritage. The reserve stresses the need for conservation efforts to safeguard these unique species and their habitats from dangers like habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trafficking.

Tangkoko Nature Reserve is a crucial ecological zone that provides a haven for tarsiers and other wildlife, while also serving as an important center for conservation, research, and education regarding Indonesia's natural heritage.

Other nocturnal creatures, such as large tarantulas, also emerge for their nighttime foraging.

Crab Eating Frog can also easily be found along the trail especially area near the coast.

As we exited the forest, we encountered another night animal—the Sulawesi Scoop Owl.

It was a perfect conclusion to my first day of exploration at Tangkoko Nature Reserve, followed by a delicious dinner prepared by our homestay host.