[4] The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the species as near threatened due to habitat loss and hunting.

melamochra, upper parts are jet black which contrast brownish cream to orange yellow ventral surface.

Feet are also comprised with soft pads with both fore and hind limbs possessing long, sharp claws.

[6] In India, R. macroura has been recorded from Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, Theni Forest Division, Palni Hills, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Anaimalai Tiger reserve, Sirumalai, Thiruvannamalai Forest Division of the Eastern Ghats, Hosur Forest Division and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary.

[7] The easternmost population of Ratufa macroura dandolena was discovered in the Pakkamalai Reserve Forest in eastern Tamil Nadu.

[8] Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Shenbagathoppu, Srivilliputtur, Tamil Nadu, India.

Ratufa macroura are known to eat fruits, nuts, insects, bird eggs, and the bark of some trees.

The fruit of the climber Combretum ovalifolium is an especially important food source where it occurs.

Young squirrels, upon first emerging from the nest, have been observed to feed exclusively on this fruit.

[9] Unlike its relatives, the giant squirrel balances using its two hind feet, instead of its tail.

The species is almost entirely an arboreal, very rarely coming to the ground to escape from predators, to flee from an intruder, attack males of the territory, and connecting with females.

Upperparts are jet black with contrasting color variation with creamy yellowish ventral surface.