‘New Bornean carnivore’ is most likely a little known flying squirrel

We analysed two camera‐trap photos of an alleged new species of carnivore from Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia. Comparisons of the features seen in the photos with morphological features of 17 similar‐looking species from the region suggest that the animal is not a new species of carnivore, as had been widely speculated, but is most likely a rarely seen species of flying squirrel, probably Aeromys thomasi . We advocate continuing adherence to the formalities of species description based on actual specimens and a formal review process. Even informal announcements about possible new species based on photographs or other indirect evidence should adopt a cautionary approach. All the possibilities should be eliminated using any available means, such as comparative morphometrics and assessments of body shape and posture, and coat colour.