It is a semi-arboreal species found in tropical and subtropical dry deciduous forests and many other rural and urban habitats.

[7][8][9] It has also been introduced to Australia where it is found in a very limited area and the United Arab Emirates due to the exotic pet trade.

The feral populace, known locally as the five-lined palm squirrel, ranges out to the suburbs surrounding the Perth Zoo and also inhabits the grounds.

[12] In India, the southern boundary of the species' range is not clearly identified, and recent records suggest it may extend as far as Madanapalli.

The southern boundary on the Western Ghats side clearly extends to localities including Dharwar and Mysore, in Karnataka.