The Urban Squirrel Survey

The "Urban Squirrel Survey" aims to gather information on squirrel populations in towns, cities, and urban parks. We are focusing on the 7 most populated urban cities and towns across the island of Ireland, namely Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Limerick, Derry, Galway and Waterford.

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

Submit sightings of Squirrels

“The Urban Squirrel Survey” is looking for information on squirrel sightings from the following urban areas; Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Limerick, Derry, Galway, and Waterford. If you wish to submit a sighting of a squirrel from one of these areas, please do so here:

  • Contact Us
  • +353 51 306 240
  • National Biodiversity Data Centre
    Beechfield House,
    Waterford Institute of Technology West Campus,
    Carriganore,
    Co. Waterford,
    Ireland.
    X91 PE03

Download our free smartphone app for recording in the field
Android App
Apple App

The National Biodiversity Data Centre is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Register Number: 730718.

 

  • Privacy
We made this!
  • Home
  • About
    • Global Biodiversity Information Facility
      • Ireland’s GBIF profile
      • The GBIF Network
      • Latest news at GBIF
      • GBIF Science Review
    • Strategic Objectives
  • Monitoring & tracking change
  • Assisting conservation
  • Ireland’s Biodiversity Learning Platform
  • Publications
  • Biodiversity Ireland’s Top 10
  • Videos
  • Shop
  • News and Events
    • Distinguished Recorder Award
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. You can view our privacy policy here.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non Necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Save & Accept