The red-hipped squirrel has striking red markings. An autumn food study found both plant and animal foods in samples.
Red patches are described on the hind legs, and the underside of the tail is bright red. The Hainan form is described with a red head, so coat color varies geographically.
The species account describes it as mainly terrestrial and reports burrows in rocky terrain.
A study of autumn samples from northern Guizhou found both plant and animal foods and reported differences in diet composition between sexes.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.