Laotian giant flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterus laoensis) On Facebook?

 We have uncovered images from Facebook pages selling wildlife in Laos. Using some detective work (but mostly google translate) we have been able to find images of giant flying squirrels. Some of these squirrels appear to be the little known Laos giant flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterus laoensis).

The Laos giant flying squirrel is known only from its holotype, a skin discovered in a market by scientists in 2012.




Some of the images we have uncovered, most of which don't really match anything but laoensis. The other options are:

1. White spotted giant flying squirrel

2 Indian giant flying squirrel

Here an incredibly large individual is displayed by a woman. It matches 99% with the Laoensis holotype.



More individuals, some whose ID are more inconclusive:




The photos continue:










We discovered these images and are currently talking to the traffickers for more details. We are waiting for official expert confirmation on the ID of the species.

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