The red giant flying squirrel is characterized by its striking red fur.  [Photo/Tide News]

After decades of absence, the red giant flying squirrel has been recently rediscovered in East China's Zhejiang province, marking a significant ecological milestone.

The red giant flying squirrel is among the largest of flying squirrels in Southeast Asia and is characterized by its striking red fur and gliding ability.

This marked the first sighting of the species in Zhejiang since 1989. Despite extensive wildlife surveys since 2012, the species had remained elusive.

The red giant flying squirrel. [Photo/Tide News]

The discovered squirrel was released into the Jinzi Mountain in Qingyuan county, Lishui, Zhejiang, on April 14, after it was found in a mall restroom in the county.

According to Li Quan, a researcher at the Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, the squirrel's presence indicates the health of Qingyuan's forest ecosystems, which provide the necessary habitat for these nocturnal, arboreal creatures.

The discovered squirrel is identified as belonging to a Fujian subspecies, typically found in Guangdong and Fujian provinces. Qingyuan county is located at the junction of Zhejiang and Fujian provinces.