Tropical Wings Zoo A World of Wildlife, Family Friendly Zoo in Essex

See the Red Squirrels at Tropical Wings RED SQUIRREL
Sciurus vulgaris

DISTRIBUTION: Great Britain and continental Europe, absent from Spain and Mediterranean islands

HABITAT: Coniferous forest

STATUS: Endangered

 


 

 

DESCRIPTION:
The Red squirrel is Great Britain’s only native squirrel but is now absent in virtually all areas of the country.

The familiar Grey squirrels were introduced from America about 100 years ago and, being bigger, bolder and more adaptable than their red cousins, have taken much of their territory and food supplies. They have also introduced new diseases from which the reds have no immunity.

Red squirrels grow to a length of approximately 30cm (including tail) and have a life span of about 5 to 7 years. The Red squirrel's coat can range from a pale sandy colour to dark brown, almost black.