Squirrels of India

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© Abedin et al 2025 https://www.mdpi.com/2079-7737/14/3/242

Mechuka Giant Flying Squirrel

Petaurista mechukaensis

Squirrel Group

Large Gliding Squirrels

Indian Range

  • Eastern Himalayas

Lifestyle

Gliding Squirrels

Activity Period

Nocturnal

Size

Body Length: 46.0–53.0 cm
Tail Length: 52.0–77.0 cm

IUCN Status

Data Deficient

Identification #

The species was described in 2009. The back or dorsal region appears deep chestnut-black, and the underbelly is an orange-buff venter. The tail is black with the basal half deep grey. Feet are black.

Distribution #

It is recorded from only a few locations in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Specifically, it is known from Mechuka Valley and the mountainous region connecting Mechuka and Tato, in Shi Yomi District, formerly part of the West Siang District.

Habitat #

It is recorded from forests at elevations between 1500 m and 2500 m above sea level.

References #

Choudhury, A.U. & Gazzard, A. 2024. Petaurista mechukaensis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2024: e.T45959013A258448634. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2024-2.RLTS.T45959013A258448634.en. Accessed on 24 February 2026.