Exotic red-bellied squirrel spotted in Palermo, Argentina

An exotic red-bellied squirrel was recently sighted on a balcony in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires, causing surprise among local residents. The rodent was observed moving through plants and along telephone cables near the intersection of French and Sánchez de Bustamante streets.

Originating from Southeast Asia, the red-bellied squirrel was introduced to Luján, Buenos Aires province, approximately 50 years ago. Since then, the species has expanded across various regions of Argentina. According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, and Sports, the population exceeds 100,000 individuals and covers an area of 2,186 square kilometers, roughly ten times the size of the City of Buenos Aires.

As an invasive species, the squirrel poses several risks, including damage to native biodiversity, urban infrastructure, and agricultural crops. Health officials warn that the animal should not be handled, as it can transmit zoonotic diseases such as leptospirosis through contact with contaminated water or soil.