Animal of the Month

1. Grey squirrels were introduced to the British Isles from North America about 100 years ago.

2. Just like us, they can be right- or left-handed!

3. Baby squirrels are known as kittens.

4. A squirrel’s nest is called a “drey”. A drey is made up of twigs and dry leaves and is lined with soft grass. It is about the sane size and shape as a football – just enough space to fit three little kittens.

5. Grey squirrels eat acorns, nuts and fruit and bury their leftovers just underneath the soil, where they can go back to it when it’s difficult to find food.

6. Although lots of people think squirrels sleep through the winter, they don't actually hibernate. They slow down a bit and tend to stay indoors more when it’s chilly outside, just like humans do.

7. Grey squirrels can easily fit into new areas, which is one of the reasons why they have done so well in the UK compared to their less adaptable cousins, red squirrels.

8. Grey squirrels can swim! Now that’s a sight we’d love to see!

9. Some people think grey squirrels are “pests“ and would like to see them culled (killed). Other people think they are wonderful animals and love to watch their crazy acrobatics as they hurtle up trees and jump from branch to branch.

10. Their big bushy tails help them to keep their balance when they are high in tree tops and keep them warm when they are sleeping. Squirrels also use their tails to let other squirrels know how they’re feeling – the squirrel equivalent of smiling or frowning.