From Worlds Wild
The tufted ground squirrel (Rheithrosciurus macrotis), native to the rainforests of Borneo, holds a wild and whimsical record in the animal kingdom - it boasts the largest tail-to-body size ratio of any known mammal. Incredibly, the volume of its tail, including all the fluffy air-filled fur, measures up to 130% the volume of its body!
This luxurious, over-the-top tail gives the squirrel an almost mythical appearance, like a puffball with legs. While the exact function of such an extravagant tail remains a subject of curiosity, scientists speculate it could serve multiple purposes: camouflage in the dense forest floor, intimidation against predators, or balance while navigating through the underbrush.
Despite its flashy look, the tufted ground squirrel remains something of a mystery. Rarely seen and poorly studied, it's known for its elusive nature and its reputation for cracking open tough nuts that few other creatures can handle - leading some to believe it might be one of the forest's most underrated powerhouses.
Part cloud, part muscle, and all mystery - the tufted ground squirrel is proof that in nature, even the smallest mammals can carry the biggest surprises.
