The Eurasian Red Squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris, is an endearing and fluffy creature known for its striking red-brown coat of fur along with a bushy tail as well as acrobatic abilities. The little, spirited critters are native to forests in Europe and parts of Asia.
A Glimpse into Their World
They are single tree dwellers, and although they will come to the ground in search of food, red squirrels spend a great deal of their time up trees. They are good at climbing, leaping and gliding between branches due to the sharp claws and strong hind legs on their bodies. Daytime hours are spent foraging for food and social interactions, they’re diurnal.
They are omnivores, with their diet being mainly plant matter such as seeds and nuts but also some fruits,and invertebrates. Seed dispersal is a key part of forest regeneration and biodiversity. Females give birth to litters of young during the breeding season, reared in a snug drey high up in the trees.
Challenges to Their Survival
Red squirrels, for all the good at living in red squirrel apartments they do… are still under a great deal of threat. Primary concerns with deforestation and urban sprawl are the loss of nesting sites or sites for feeding. Moreover, the introduction of non-native species like gray squirrel is a major menace. Gray squirrels are bigger and badder, which can mean big trouble for the smaller reds getting pushed aside at feeding stations or even worse on breeding islands.
In addition, the transmission of diseases such as squirrel pox can have catastrophic effects on red squirrels. This horrific viral disease is highly infectious and can result in severe illness or death in red squirrels.
Conservation Efforts
Many conservation initiatives in place to help ensure the protection of these iconic mammals. Restoration projects create and maintain habitats suitable to red squirrels. There are also public outreach campaigns to raise awareness of red squirrels and encourage people to help save them. Appreciate the ecological role of red squirrels, by knowing them.