Calabrian Black Squirrel
Sciurus meridionalis
Close to qualifying as threatened
About the Calabrian Black Squirrel
The Calabrian black squirrel (Sciurus meridionalis) is a species of tree squirrel in the genus Sciurus, endemic to the forests of the regions of Calabria and Basilicata, in the south of the Italian Peninsula. It has been long considered a subspecies of Sciurus vulgaris, the Eurasian red squirrel, but a 2017 scientific survey brought genetic evidence of being a distinct species.
Key Facts
- Near threatened - close to being at risk.
Classification
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the Calabrian Black Squirrel?
The scientific name of the Calabrian Black Squirrel is Sciurus meridionalis.
Is the Calabrian Black Squirrel endangered?
The Calabrian Black Squirrel is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
How many Calabrian Black Squirrel sightings have been recorded?
219 observations of the Calabrian Black Squirrel have been recorded on iNaturalist.
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Featured in Beat Darwin
The Calabrian Black Squirrel was Beat Darwin's Animal of the Day on challenge #114 — July 3, 2026. Can you identify it in 3 attempts?
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