Are red squirrels more aggressive than some other squirrels?

Red squirrels remain active throughout the winter and live in their established territories. They do not hibernate but may stay in their nests for more extended periods during extremely cold or inclement weather. During the winter months, red squirrels rely heavily on the food caches they have stored in the fall, which consist of nuts, seeds, and other available food items. Their dreys, or nests, provide necessary shelter from the winter elements. Red squirrels’ fur becomes thicker in colder regions, providing additional insulation. Their ability to survive harsh winter conditions is a testament to their adaptability and resilience in various environments.

Red squirrels are not carnivores; they are primarily herbivores. Their diet mainly consists of nuts, seeds, fruits, and buds of trees. However, like many small mammals, they are opportunistic feeders and can occasionally consume insects, small birds, or eggs if these food sources are readily available. This dietary flexibility helps them survive in various habitats with changing food availability.

Red squirrels demonstrate a significant level of intelligence, which is evident in their complex behaviours. They are adept at finding and storing food, often creating caches of nuts and seeds for future consumption. This behaviour requires a good memory to relocate their stored food. Additionally, red squirrels are known to adapt quickly to changes in their environment, whether it’s finding new food sources or avoiding predators. They can also learn to navigate obstacles and solve problems, especially when searching for food or building nests.

Red squirrels are not considered invasive in their natural range, which includes much of Europe and northern Asia, as well as parts of North America. However, if they are introduced to areas outside their native range, they have the potential to become invasive. In such cases, they can impact local ecosystems, mainly if no natural predators or competitors exist. It’s important to maintain the balance of local ecosystems by preventing the introduction of non-native species, including red squirrels, into new environments.

The cost for squirrel extermination varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of the area to be treated. Birch Fumigator offers a variety of pest control services to suit your specific needs. Contact Birch Fumigator for a free quote today.

In Alberta, red squirrels are not listed as a protected species under wildlife conservation laws. They are widespread throughout the province and do not currently face significant threats that would warrant special protection status. However, considering the ethical and humane treatment of all wildlife, including red squirrels, is essential. In Edmonton, Birch Fumigators ensures that any interventions with red squirrels are conducted humanely, focusing on relocation rather than extermination.