The Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica) is known for its vibrant, multi-colored fur ranging from black to orange and cream. It inhabits the forest canopies of India, displaying remarkable agility as it leaps between trees. This diurnal species plays a crucial role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.

Ratufa indica, commonly known as the Indian giant squirrel or Malabar giant squirrel, is native to the Indian subcontinent. It is primarily found in the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and the forests of central India. Its geographical distribution includes states such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.

This species predominantly inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests. These areas are characterized by high annual rainfall, dense canopy cover, and a rich diversity of flora. The Indian giant squirrel thrives in elevations ranging from lowland forests to higher altitudes in the Western Ghats.

The Indian giant squirrel is arboreal and diurnal, spending most of its time in the upper canopy of trees. It plays a crucial role in seed dispersal due to its diet, which includes fruits, nuts, flowers, and bark. The squirrel's adaptations to tree-dwelling include strong limbs and a long, bushy tail for balancing. It also constructs large, spherical nests made of twigs and leaves, usually situated at a fork in a tree.