Quick Take
- These squirrels are called "flying" squirrels, though they don't actually fly. The real mechanism behind their aerial movement is far more remarkable. Discover the gliding mechanism →
- That oversized, fluffy tail isn't just for looks. It's actually performing a specific job every time this squirrel takes to the air. Learn what the tail does →
- Nature gave this squirrel a built-in piece of equipment that humans took centuries to engineer for themselves. See the built-in equipment →
Many people are familiar with flying squirrels and red pandas, but imagine an animal that looks like a combination of both: the red giant flying squirrel fits this description and is extremely adorable. Renowned as one of the largest flying squirrels on the planet, these animals are amazing to see in action. This Instagram post by @beyond_the_wildlife shows one of these squirrels majestically gliding through the air. Read here to learn more.
Red giant flying squirrels are some of the biggest squirrels in the world, growing to about 3 feet long.
©lonelyshrimp, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons – Original / License
About the Red Giant Flying Squirrel
The red giant flying squirrel, known scientifically as Petaurista petaurista, is one of the largest flying squirrels on Earth. They are native to South and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Nepal, and China. Although they are large, they can be difficult to spot due to their habitat. These flying squirrels prefer dense forests, especially tropical ones. Since the trees in these environments grow close together, the squirrels have an easier time navigating the forest canopy. The canopy is where they spend most of their lives, nesting in the high branches of different trees. Although they do not actually fly, they use a stretchy membrane called a patagium—which connects their arms to their legs—to glide from tree to tree. It’s like a built-in wingsuit!
As their name suggests, red giant flying squirrels are massive for a squirrel species. Their body can grow to about 12–18 inches long, with a tail of similar length, so their total length can reach up to about 3 feet, including the tail. Their fluffy tails are not just adorable; they are also practical. The tail helps with balance and steering in the air when they glide between trees. The rest of their bodies are fluffy and dark red in color, making them especially cute. Sightings are rare not only because they live high in the trees, but also due to their nocturnal behavior. They are active at night, which makes them difficult to spot. Their big, dark eyes are perfect for seeing in the dark. Red giant flying squirrels have a vegetarian diet consisting of leaves, fruits, and nuts—most of which they can find without leaving the canopy.
