The red squirrel is a small, tufted-eared tree squirrel of Europe and northern Asia. Common in much of its range, it has become rare in Britain and Ireland because of the introduced grey squirrel.
Interesting facts
- Red squirrels grow ear tufts in winter.
- Their colour varies from bright red to dark brown and almost black.
- They bury food in many small caches, and forgotten seeds grow into new trees.
- Grey squirrels carry squirrelpox, a virus that kills red squirrels.
- Most of Britain’s red squirrels live in Scotland.
- They build nests called dreys from twigs and moss.
Behaviour
Red squirrels are active by day and spend most of their time in trees. They do not hibernate but rely on hidden food stores in winter.
Breeding and young
Females can have one or two litters a year of about three kits, born in a drey. Kits leave the nest after about ten weeks.
Threats and conservation
Competition with introduced grey squirrels, squirrelpox, habitat loss and road deaths.
Where to see it
- Abernethy Forest and Loch Garten, Scottish Highlands
- Brownsea Island and the Isle of Wight, England
- Formby, Merseyside, and Kielder Forest, England
- Forests and parks across mainland Europe
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Scotland Wildlife Guide: Red Deer, Otters, Eagles and Puffins
