Identification
Characteristics:
- Medium-sized flying squirrel.
- Ears are dark brown, with a blackish-brown underside.
- Head and back are brown or reddish-brown with scattered, irregular light spots.
- Patagium (skin membrane used for gliding) has golden-brown hairs on a black background; the background may be mottled or streaked.
- The underside of the patagium has small, scattered white spots.
Biology and Ecology
- Lives in mature forests with large trees, at elevations above 500 meters above sea level.
- Feeds on forest fruits.
- Nests in tree hollows.
- Gives birth to 1-2 offspring between March and May, prior to the rainy season (depending on whether they inhabit northern or southern regions).
Distribution
Within Vietnam:
- Lai Châu, Sơn La, Lào Cai, Hà Giang, Kontum, Lâm Đồng
Worldwide:
- Myanmar, Thailand, Southern China, Laos, Cambodia.
Value
- Scientifically significant species.
- Appreciated for its beautiful coloration.
Conservation Status
- Restricted distribution area, under 5,000 km², severely fragmented and continuously declining due to habitat loss.
- Habitat size < 500 km².
- Not abundant in the wild; currently very difficult to observe.
- Small population.
- Estimated mature individuals: approximately 250.
Ranking
- EN (Endangered)
- A1c
- B1+2a
- C2a
Conservation Measures
- Included in the Vietnam Red Book.
- Hunting is strictly prohibited.
- Protected areas have been established, especially in the headwater forests of northwestern Vietnam.