A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Banter Hall The Critter Corner Cedar Wax Squirrel

I was fortunate enough yesterday to get pictures of one of the RAREST mammals in the world, the Cedar Wax Squirrel. These Squirrels are made ENTIRELY of Wax, so must keep their bodies cool at all time. They regulate body temperature by leaking out excess heat through their eyes, staying in the shade, eating cool moist fruits, moving VERY slowly so as to NOT overheat, and by taking frequent naps and rest breaks. The one I've captured is a sweet soon-to-be-Mom Wax Squirrel, so I have the unique opportunity to help increase this rare animal.


Here she is starting to go dormant. Notice the bright body heat shining out through her eyes.



Now she sags on the branches and you can see through the LIGHTER glow in her eyes that she is cooling down.



AND......She's OUT!



She will stay in this Shut-down mode until her body is completely cool then she will rouse, dine on the Mulberries around her, and then SLOWLY go about her business.

WOW

That was scarey.......I keep thinking of a rat the whole time..
You had some story there......

Dont think it is my bag, weather it is rare or not .. But thanks..

She is rather large around the middle so I don't think she has given birth yet. She was just filling up with milk which means that birthing is near.