(Photo from Taguig.com)
The DENR-Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) identifies these creatures, often seen scampering across streets and tree branches, and tightroping on wires, as Finlayson's squirrels.
These squirrels are not originally from the Philippines, but are typically seen in neighboring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
The DENR issued a statement on their social media post that said, "The DENR reminds the public that while every wildlife species has inherent value, this squirrel is an invasive species that may threaten local ecosystems, and its presence is not promoted."
According to the DENR, these squirrels are considered "invasive" because they multiply rapidly, potentially compete with local wildlife, and can damage crops.
Additionally, there have been reports of them chewing on power and internet cables, and they may also carry rabies.
So, the DENR is advising the public against capturing, feeding, or keeping these squirrels as pets.
They recommend reporting sightings of these squirrels to the DENR or, if captured, to call (02) 8927-4788 or the national hotline 8888, or to message their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/share/1H6T9P6tJe/?mibextid=wwXIfr
The squirrels have not only been spotted in Taguig but also in Makati, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, and Nueva Ecija.
The DENR suspects that these squirrels originated from the illegal trade of exotic animals and were either escaped or intentionally released by their owners.
