Species · GBIF taxon 2437565
Indian Giant Squirrel
Ratufa indicaAlso known as Malabar Giant Squirrel, Shekru
Indian giant squirrels are spectacular, canopy-dwelling rodents famous for their striking multi-colored coats of deep maroon, purple, and cream. These agile acrobats leap up to six meters between tree branches in the tropical rainforests of India, rarely descending to the forest floor. They construct multiple large, globular nests high in the canopy, using them for sleeping, breeding, and nursery chambers.
ArborealColorfulDiurnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Wild Figs
- Jackfruit Seeds
- Tree Bark
Predators
- Leopard
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Black Eagle
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, logging, and hunting for fur and meat
HabitatsTropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests
Life spanAbout 15 to 20 years in captivity (shorter in the wild)
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilySciuridae
- SpeciesRatufa indica
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of delivering a severe bite if cornered; observe safely from the forest floor.
Responsible observation
- Listen closely: Listen for their loud, rattling, metallic call that echoes through the canopy to locate them.
- Scan the upper canopy: Look up into the highest branches of tall trees, especially near wild fig trees.
- Watch the branches: Look for sudden movements or shaking foliage, which often betrays a giant squirrel leaping.
Predator 
Close Relative JJ Harrison (https://www.jjharrison.com.au/) / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-saClose Relative Close Relative
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