Oriental giant squirrels, Indian giant squirrel, or Malabar giant squirrel,

Description:

Ratufa indica has dorsal coloration that varies from deep red to brown, the ventral fur is white. It has a conspicuous two-toned (and sometimes three-toned) color scheme.

Habitat:

The species is endemic to deciduous, mixed deciduous, and moist evergreen forests of peninsular India. They feed on fruits, particularly the fruits of 'Terminalia' or 'Ain'.

Notes:

When frightened, these squirrels do not dash away; quite a common habit is to lie flattened against a branch or to slip behind a heavy bough or trunk. (next picture) Shekru' the state animal of Maharashtra.