Red giant flying squirrel

The red giant flying squirrel, also known as the common giant flying squirrel, is a captivating rodent species native to Southeast Asia, spanning from the Himalayas to southern and central China. This arboreal squirrel is among the largest of its kind and is renowned for its remarkable gliding abilities, made possible by the patagium—a skin membrane between its limbs.

Primarily nocturnal, the red giant flying squirrel is herbivorous, feeding mostly on leaves, fruits, nuts, and other plant matter. Females typically give birth to one or two offspring per litter. Although they face local issues such as habitat loss and hunting, they are generally widespread and not considered threatened on a broader scale.

Interestingly, this species exhibits significant variation in appearance across different geographic regions, with various subspecies displaying distinct colors and sizes. The classification of populations outside the Sundaic region remains a topic of debate, with some scientists arguing whether they should be considered separate species or subspecies.

One of the most remarkable traits of the red giant flying squirrel is its ability to glide over long distances—up to 450 meters! Socially, these squirrels are usually solitary or found in pairs, sometimes accompanied by their young. Breeding patterns can vary by region, with some populations experiencing two breeding seasons annually. Typically, they give birth to one young per litter, who undergoes an extended nursing period.

Population densities of the red giant flying squirrel can vary widely depending on their habitat, but they are relatively common in the Sundaic region.