Indian giant squirrel
A species of Oriental giant squirrels Scientific name : Ratufa indica Genus : Oriental giant squirrels
Indian giant squirrel, A species of Oriental giant squirrels
Scientific name: Ratufa indica
Genus: Oriental giant squirrels
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Benhur Benjamin , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
R. indica has a conspicuous two-toned (and sometimes three-toned) color scheme. The colors involved can be creamy-beige, buff, tan, rust, brown, or even a dark seal brown. The underparts and the front legs are usually cream colored, the head can be brown or beige, however there is a distinctive white spot between the ears. Adult head and body length varies around 14 inches (36 cm) and the tail length is approximately 2 ft (0.61 m). Adult weight - 2 kg (4.41 lb).
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Indian giant squirrel primarily consume fruits, seeds, and flowers. They especially favor mangoes, but their versatile diet can include bark, leaves, and insects when needed, demonstrating their adaptability to survive.
Appearance
Indian giant squirrel is a large squirrel with a robust body and a voluminous tail, covered in dense, soft fur. It displays a striking two-toned color pattern, with a creamy-white underbelly contrasting sharply against a deep chestnut upper body. Adult males and females share a similar appearance, and both possess long, curved claws used for climbing and foraging.
Behavior
Indian giant squirrel is a solitary and arboreal creature, demonstrating highly territorial behavior with vocalizations and physical intimidation. Characteristically, they construct large nests in tree-top canopies, using leaves and twigs. Equipped with adaptations such as a prehensile tail for foraging, the species efficiently harvests fruits, nuts, and insects for its diet.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Benhur Benjamin , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Gnawing mammals Family
Squirrels Genus
Oriental giant squirrels Species
Indian giant squirrel