This is the smallest of the Funambulus species, darker and thick-furred in appearance. Three pale lines are seen on the dorsum alternating with four dark ones. Their tails are short and sparse, sometimes resembling a bottlebrush.

This species occurs in the southern Western Ghats of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

They are seen in the dense understory of tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests. Also recorded in timber, tea and coffee plantations along the forest edges.

This species was observed feeding nectar of Lobelia leschenaultia and Erythrina variegata. It feeds on fruits of some plant species, including Memecylon randerianum, Rubus ellipticus and Lantana camara.

Unique high-pitched call which is often repetitive.