The taguan or giant squirrel of Malabar is a species that never ceases to surprise with its striking appearance. This rodent lives primarily in the jungles, forests and canopies of the Western Ghats.

This multicolored tree-dweller sports a black coat that shifts toward a vibrant red, reminiscent of the deep purple on its head and ears. Its paws and belly display a much lighter brown coloration. The species uses its coloring to escape predators in the forested regions of the subcontinent, such as civets, wild cats, raptors, and snakes.

An Impressive Wingspan

The animal can reach a wingspan of one meter—50 centimeters for the body and 40 for the tail. It feeds primarily on fruits and seeds, but occasionally indulges in insects and bird eggs. Its wingspan allows it to swing from branch to branch throughout the day.

Highly at ease in this type of environment, it is currently suffering greatly from deforestation, though the IUCN has not yet classified it among the planet's most threatened animals. Its situation nonetheless remains concerning.

Thibault Bourru