A squirrel at Mohanlal Sukhadia University in Udaipur has reportedly caused alarm by biting more than eighteen individuals over the past month. Most of the biting incidents have been centred around the Arts College campus, particularly in areas close to the Departments of Psychology and Women’s Studies. The animal’s presence has led to increased caution among students and staff, who now express reluctance to traverse these areas.

The situation escalated on April 22, when the squirrel allegedly attacked two research scholars, amplifying concerns further. Witnesses have described the animal’s unpredictable behaviour, noting that it would often emerge from hiding spots to launch sudden attacks, making avoidance challenging.

Efforts to Capture the Animal Underway

Naveen Nandwana, the Associate Dean of the College of Arts, confirmed that the Animal Aid team made attempts to safely capture the squirrel but were unsuccessful. As a result, university officials are now collaborating with wildlife experts to manage the situation more effectively. The intention is to relocate the squirrel to a more suitable habitat away from the campus.

The unusual behaviour exhibited by the squirrel has raised concerns among the university community. Reports indicate that it has taken to hiding behind curtains, which has heightened the apprehension of those on campus. This unpredictability has led some individuals to avoid the campus altogether, causing disruptions in daily academic activities.

Authorities are closely monitoring the circumstances and have implemented precautionary measures. Individuals affected by the bites have received tetanus injections through the Animal Husbandry Department as a standard safety protocol.

Possible Causes for the Behaviour

Experts believe that the extreme heat could be a contributing factor to the squirrel’s aggressive behaviour. High temperatures are known to induce stress and disorientation in smaller animals. Furthermore, prolonged periods without adequate food can exacerbate aggressiveness, potentially leading to an increase in bite incidents.

The university community remains on alert as officials continue their efforts to manage the situation. While the squirrel has yet to be captured, university authorities are optimistic about implementing a more effective strategy to control the situation. They aim to ensure the safety of students and staff while also addressing the welfare of the animal.

As the situation develops, the university is committed to maintaining open communication with its students and staff regarding safety measures. The challenges posed by the squirrel have highlighted the need for proactive wildlife management strategies in urban educational institutions.

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