Identification
Characteristics: The largest flying squirrel species. A patagium (skin membrane) extends from the neck, along the front and rear limbs, to the base of the tail. The fur is thick and soft.
The fur on the head, back, tail, and upper surface of the patagium has a dark gray base. The distal third of the hairs is reddish-brown, creating a reddish-brown background color for the back. Whitish hair tips give the back a reddish-brown color with white speckling.
The face has many white spots. The chin ranges from gray to light brown. The belly and the underside of the patagium are pale reddish-brown.
The feet are black. The tail is round, bushy, and longer than the body length.
Biology and Ecology
Inhabits old-growth forests with large trees and fruiting trees on rocky or earthen mountains. They build nests in large tree hollows, high among the dense foliage and branches. Flying squirrels are solitary, only pairing up during the breeding season. However, 3-4 squirrels can sometimes be observed feeding on the same tree. They are nocturnal, moving slowly along tree branches; they can extend their patagium to glide from tree to tree over considerable distances.
They feed on fruits, nuts (such as wild chestnuts, sấu, sung, fig, si, đa, white and black olives), young shoots, and young leaves.
They have two litters per year, in April-May and August-September. Each litter contains 1-2 or 3-4 offspring. The young are raised in the nest until they become independent.
Distribution
In Vietnam: Found from north to south in areas where forests are still well-protected.
Globally: Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Southern China, Laos, and Cambodia.
Value
A precious and unique animal, scientifically significant. The beautiful fur has the potential for captive breeding and export.
Status
Prior to 1990, the Large Giant Flying Squirrel was relatively common in primary forests from north to south Vietnam. Currently, its distribution covers >20,000 km², and its habitat >2,000 km². However, primary forest habitat has been significantly reduced, and the quality of the squirrel’s habitat has declined. The squirrel population has decreased by over 20% in the last 10 years and continues to decline.
Classification
VU A1c
Conservation Measures
Included in the Vietnam Red Book (2000) and in Decree 32/CP (BII listing). Hunting is strictly prohibited. Logging and timber exploitation are prohibited in forests where populations of the Large Giant Flying Squirrel still live.