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Ratufa bicolor
Diet
Seeds, fruits, leaves, flowers, bark, and occasional animal material
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical forests with tall, continuous tree canopies
Range
South and Southeast Asia
Black giant squirrels are large arboreal rodents inhabiting tropical and subtropical forests of South and Southeast Asia. They spend most of their lives high in mature tree canopies, moving between branches with powerful leaps and rarely descending to the ground. Their dark upperparts contrast with paler underparts, and their extremely long, bushy tails assist with balance. Individuals construct large spherical nests from leaves and branches in tall trees. (Animal Diversity Web)
These squirrels feed mainly on plant material, including seeds, fruits, leaves, flowers, and bark, although occasional animal foods may also be taken. They forage during daylight and frequently handle food while seated on branches. Black giant squirrels are generally solitary outside breeding associations. Females normally produce one or two young and raise them in elevated nests, providing milk, warmth, protection, and access to a secure canopy environment until they can forage independently. (Animal Diversity Web)