About Red Squirrels
Why are Red Squirrels so special?
Red squirrels are the only squirrel native to the British Isles and are disappearing fast from the mainland as the American Grey squirrel population increases.
The Isle of Wight is an important stronghold for Red Squirrels as the stretch of water known as the Solent provides a barrier to the Greys. Very occasionally a grey does suceed in getting to the Island, so we need to be vigilant. There are contingency plans for dealing with Greys who ignore the 'keep out' signs! Not only do Grey Squirrels outcompete Reds, they carry the deadly squirrelpox virus, which is fatal to the Reds.
The Isle of Wight’s woodland can provide habitat for around 3,500 squirrels but numbers fluctuate annually according to the success or failure of the autumn seed crop. They also fluctuate seasonally when the young are born.
Red squirrels on the Island live mainly in broad leaved woodland - which is unique nowadays as greys dominate this habitat on the mainland.The Island is also free of deer, who nibble young shoots and retard the growth of understorey trees.
What do Red Squirrels need to survive?
Trees - Red Squirrels not only need trees to live in and feed from but they are essentially an arboreal animal who would prefer to travel through treetops rather than across the ground. This means that 'corridors', or 'Squirrel highways' are very important to them. Tree species preferred by Red Squirrels are: hazel, wild cherry, sweet chestnut, walnut, Scots pine, Corsican pine and beech.
A Grey Squirrel free zone - For example, the Isle of Wight! The Island is a nationally important stronghold for our fast disappearing native Red Squirrels.
Support from humans - Many people feed Squirrels in their garden, and in a Red Squirrel zone such as the Isle of Wight, putting out feed for Squirrels can provide an excellent opportunity to see these rare creatures. Development which encroaches into woodland and over zealous forestry work, threaten precious habitat, so providing feed can provide a lifeline to some Squirrel communities.
Furry Facts!
- Squirrels do not hibernate
- Reds & Greys cannot breed together
- Reds cannot digest tannins in acorns - Greys can
- Young are called kittens. Females can have 2 litters of 3-4 per year
- Kittens are born without hair or teeth and are blind for the first 3-4 weeks
- Only around 1 in 6 sees it’s first birthday
- Adult Red Squirrels weigh 275-300gms
- Body length - 20-22cm and tail length is 17-18cm
- Like us, they are right or left handed
- Can live up to 6 years in the wild