Researching red squirrel populations in, and around, urban landscapes will teach us more about the importance of green spaces and ecological corridors in protecting our recovering native species. In addition to this, recent studies have shown that urban parks may act as a refuge for the invasive grey squirrel from predation by the pine marten. Therefore, knowledge of squirrel populations in urban areas is an essential element of protecting our native red squirrel species. “The Urban Squirrel Survey” is a collaborative project between researchers in NUI Galway and the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
Why do we need to know more about squirrels in urban areas?
With the spread of urbanisation, parks and urban green spaces are becoming important habitats for many Irish species, including squirrels. By understanding where squirrel species occur in urban areas, we can plan conservation actions to protect our recovering native red squirrel species.
Red Squirrel – Colin Stanley
Where will I see a squirrel?
Squirrels are diurnal, meaning that they are most active during the day. They inhabit treetops but can also be seen foraging on the forest floor. Red squirrels are very elusive animals and are usually extremely wary of humans. They often hide on the opposite side of tree trunks from humans or from creatures that they consider to be predators. Grey squirrels are much bolder and appear less afraid of humans. They also spend more time on the ground feeding than red squirrels.
Unfortunately, in urban areas, squirrels are sometimes found dead on the side of the road. We are looking for sightings of any squirrels, either dead or alive, from the urban areas in question in order to better understand their distribution throughout these areas.
Red Squirrel – Kieran O’Toole
What do they look like?
Red squirrels: Red squirrels are identifiable by their iconic ear tufts and large bushy tail. As the name suggests, they have red-brown fur, however, their colour varies depending on the time of year. Usually, they appear a darker brown/ grey colour in the winter, and a brighter red colour in the summer.
Grey Squirrel – Andrew Kelly
What do they look like?
Grey Squirrels: Grey squirrels and visibly larger and heavier squirrels, weighing approximately twice that of the red squirrel. They have slightly smaller ears, which lack ear tufts, a large bushy tail, and grey fur. This grey colour is variable, with some individuals appearing a chestnut colour around the face, hips and paws. This may lead to confusion, but the overall difference in body size and colour make the grey and red squirrel distinctly unique.
Red Squirrel – Colin Stanley