MEET Sciurus vulgaris

"Living under the shadow of its tail" - after the Greek for Sciurus

The Eurasian red squirrel used to be a common sight throughout Great Britain, but since the American grey squirrel was introduced to the country in Victorian times it's been pretty tough for our iconic reds. We have compiled a list of FAQs below and links to loads of additional resources should you be interested in learning more

Identifying a Red Squirrel

Red squirrels generally have a reddish-brown coat above with a white or cream underside, but this varies considerably between individuals, as well as through the year because they all moult (renew their coats) in both spring and autumn. Some individuals are in part pale brown, grey or almost black and sometimes their tails and long ear-tufts go completely blond in summer. Close up, look at their paws as they remain a rusty red/brown colour.