Identification:
Distinguishing characteristics: Ears are slightly white behind. The head and back range in color from gray to brown, depending on whether the tips of the hairs are pale white or brown. The belly is pale white, pale gray, or brownish-gray. The underside of the tail is flat, while the top is slightly flattened. The tail is dark gray or brownish-gray, or a mixture with a hint of brown at the base and along both sides of the tail.
Biology and Ecology:
This species of small flying squirrel inhabits old-growth forests with large trees on high mountains, typically below 1000m, in areas with minimal human presence. They build nests within the cavities of large trees. They remain in their nests during the day and forage for food at night. Little is currently known about their biology.
Distribution:
Vietnam: Sơn La, Hòa Bình, Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Đắk Lắk, Lâm Đồng provinces.
Worldwide: Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia.
Value:
A rare and unique mammal of tropical forests, this species is of global conservation concern. If successfully bred in captivity, it could potentially be exported.
Status:
Prior to 1980, the species’ distribution area was approximately 30,000 km². The habitat area was estimated at over 2,000 km². Due to the reduction of old-growth forests and large trees from logging, the distribution area has shrunk to less than 20,000 km² and the habitat area remaining is around 500 km². The population has decreased by 20%.
Classification:
VU A1c B2b,c. (Vulnerable – according to IUCN Red List criteria)
Conservation Measures:
Listed in the Vietnam Red Book. Logging of large trees is strictly prohibited in headwater forests and areas where this species of small flying squirrel is found.