Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
Habitat
This species primarily inhabits the tropical and subtropical moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats in southern India, preferring areas with dense canopy cover and high elevation above 500 meters. It avoids open areas and relies on tall trees for gliding and nesting. Geographic range is limited to Kerala and Tamil Nadu states.
Diet
The Travancore flying squirrel feeds mainly on fruits, nuts, and seeds from trees like figs and oaks, supplemented by insects and occasionally bird eggs. It forages nocturnally, gliding between trees to access food sources high in the canopy. Feeding behavior includes caching food for later use during scarce periods.
Behavior
This squirrel is nocturnal and arboreal, spending most of its time gliding between trees using its patagium membrane to cover distances up to 50 meters. It lives in small family groups and is territorial, marking trees with scent glands to defend its area. Notable behaviors include nesting in tree hollows and vocalizing with high-pitched calls to communicate with mates or warn of predators.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status of the Travancore flying squirrel is Vulnerable due to habitat loss from deforestation and fragmentation. Major threats include agriculture expansion and climate change, with populations showing a declining trend.