The smallest species of squirrel.

Life span
2-3 years.

Statistics
6.6-10cm long, with 5-8cm tail.

Physical description
The smallest squirrel in the world, the African pygmy squirrel is mouse-like with greyish fur, slightly reddish on the back, and a slightly fluffy tail.

Distribution
South-eastern Nigeria, Cameroon and Gabon.

Habitat
Forest and woodland.

Diet
They mainly feed on seeds.

Behaviour
They are thought to be solitary and diurnal.

Reproduction
Little is known about African pygmy squirrel's reproductive biology.

Conservation status
They are listed as Vulnerable.

Records
The smallest species of squirrel.

History
Rodents date back to the Palaeocene, when they were already quite recognisable. Squirrels appeared in the Oligocene, as did many rodent families.