Koraput, Sept 4: BSF jawans have successfully rescued a rare flying squirrel from the forest of Koraput district, Odisha. The rescue took place behind the BSF camp in Ramgiri, located within the Gupteshwar forest range.

According to reports, a group of jawans from the 180 Battalion of the BSF, stationed at Ramgiri, spotted the flying squirrel while out on a routine patrol near the camp. Suspecting that the animal was unwell, the jawans provided immediate first aid and gave it water to help it recover.

Following the initial care, Ramgiri BSF Company Commander Amit Kumar Singh and jawan Lambodar Parida handed over the rescued squirrel to the Gupteshwar forest officer. The forest department has since taken over its treatment and care.

The jawans, familiar with the local language, referred to the squirrel as a “flying mouse,” noting that such animals are rare in the wild. They expressed happiness at the sighting, as the species has not been seen in the region for many years. However, they also highlighted the declining numbers of these creatures due to deforestation and habitat destruction.

“We believe that protecting the forest and its habitat is crucial for preserving such rare species in Koraput. The government and the forest department must work together to increase their population and ensure their survival,” the jawans said.

The forest department continues to monitor the squirrel's health and is taking steps to ensure its recovery.