Malabar squirrel - a large central Indian tree squirrel

The Indian giant squirrel, or Malabar giant squirrel, (Ratufa indica) is a large tree squirrel species of the genus Ratufa, and is native to India. It is a large-bodied diurnal, arboreal, and herbivorous squirrel found in South Asia. It is called 'Shekru' in Marathi and is the state animal of Maharashtra.

The Indian giant squirrel is an upper-canopy dwelling species. It rarely leaves its home in the trees, and requires tall profusely branched trees for the construction of nests. It travels from tree to tree with jumps of up to 6 m (20 ft). When in danger the Ratufa indica, instead of fleeing. often freezes or flattens itself against the tree trunk. Its main predators are birds of prey and leopards. The Giant Squirrel is mostly active in the early hours of the morning and in the evening, while enjoying a short siesta during midday. It is a shy, wary animal and not easy to find.

Source : Wikipedia

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