Consider the following statements regarding the Indian squirrels: 1. They build nests by making burrows in the ground. 2. They store their food materials like nuts and seeds in the ground. 3. They are omnivorous. How many of the above statements are correct?

1. A. Only one
2. B. Only two
3. C. All three
4. D. None

Answer: B

Explanation

1. Statement 1 is incorrect: While some ground squirrels do burrow, many Indian squirrel species, especially the common tree squirrels (like the Indian palm squirrel) and giant squirrels, are arboreal and build nests (dreys) in trees using twigs, leaves, and other plant material. 2. Statement 2 is correct: Squirrels are well-known for caching food, burying nuts and seeds in the ground to retrieve later, particularly for colder months. This behavior is crucial for their survival and also aids in seed dispersal. 3. Statement 3 is correct: Squirrels are omnivorous. Their diet primarily consists of nuts, seeds, fruits, and berries, but they also consume insects, bird eggs, small vertebrates, and fungi. Therefore, two statements are correct.