musasuku

Musasuku is a term that can refer to a few different things, primarily a Japanese word for flying squirrel and also a character from a popular Japanese anime and manga series.

In its original Japanese context, "musasuku" (ムササビ) is the word for the Japanese flying squirrel, *Pteromys volans orii*. These nocturnal mammals are known for their ability to glide through the air using a membrane of skin that stretches between their limbs. They inhabit forested areas of Japan and are a common sight in some mountainous regions.

The term also gained significant recognition through the anime and manga series *Inuyasha*. In this fictional universe, Musasuku is a large, wise, and somewhat eccentric owl-like demon who often provides guidance and assistance to the main characters. This Musasuku is depicted as a formidable creature with magical abilities, contrasting with the real-world, non-magical flying squirrel. The character's popularity has led to widespread recognition of the name beyond its original zoological meaning. Therefore, depending on the context, "Musasuku" can refer to either the animal or the fictional character.