Squirrels

Types of Squirrel

Flying Squirrels

Flying squirrels are one of the few types of mammal who have evolved to glide through the air. Unlike bats who evolved bird-like wings, these rodents have simple skin flaps between their limbs.

Black Flying Squirrel

Groove-Toothed Flying Squirrel

Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel

Northern Flying Squirrel


Siberian Flying Squirrel

Southern Flying Squirrel

This species lives in North America, from southeastern California to Florida. 

"It is found in deciduous and mixed woods in the eastern half of North America, from southeastern Canada to Florida. Disjunct populations of this species have been recorded in the highlands of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras." - Wikipedia: Southern Flying Squirrel

Thomas's Flying Squirrel

Groundhog

Ground Squirrels

Ground squirrels burrow in grasslands, and stand on their hind legs to communicate, much like meercats.

European Souslik

Ground squirrels range from Europe to Asia

Marmots

Prairie Dogs

Tamias

Chipmunks

Grey Squirrels

Grey squirrels were imported to the UK from North America, and have pushed the native red squirrels towards extinction. 

UK

If you live in the UK, then please scroll down to the Organizations section below to find out how you can help study or even catch grey squirrels in the race to help win back the UK from these invasives. So far efforts have been successful, and red squirrels are regaining their lost territory, but they still need all the help they can get!

Red Squirrels

Both America and Europe have red squirrels.

Threats to Squirrels

Invasive Species

Invasive Plants

Non-Native Squirrels

UK red squirrels for example have been driven towards extinction by the introduction of American grey squirrels who were imported as pets by the Victorians. 

Our native squirrels only eat a limited diet, while the invaders feed on many plants, easily outcompeting our natives. In addition they are more aggressive, driving red squirrels from their home territories.

Solutions

Reforestation & Forest Protections

Reintroduction

Report Sightings

Citizen science is a great way to get involved with science and conservation. 

You can also click the Citizen Science button to see other ways to get involved, such as general nature surveys and reporting, transcribing historical records, and more!

We’ve Released 803 Squirrels at an Airport

14:17 minute video talking about the endangered souslik, and their translocation to areas similar to a similar airport to where they have been thriving. Some were also sent to bolster struggling populations in other places.

Resources & Guides

Europe

UK

Scotland

North America

Tools & Apps

Europe

UK

Northern Ireland

Organizations

Europe

Slovakia

UK

2:45 minute video

Northern Ireland

Scotland

North America

Canada

USA

Alaska

Maps

Europe

Scotland

North America

USA

Texas

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