Are the black squirrels really the bad guys?

Created: 12/31/2022, 5:00 p.m

By: Ines Alms

At least it felt like there used to be more red squirrels.

But it is a misconception that the dark ones of their kind displace the red ones.

Many people are delighted when they see a squirrel hopping around in parks, in the garden or in the nearest tree.

However, the black or rather dark squirrels are viewed with skepticism by some, as they are considered a naturalized species from other countries that decimate the native red animals.

It is the American gray squirrels that compete with the squirrels.

Black Squirrels: Are They Really the Bad Guys?

Surely that black squirrel can't mix a little water, right?

© YAY Images/Imago

The good news first: The European squirrels are not threatened so far.

Whether light red, brown-red, brown or almost black - the squirrels that live here come in many color variants and are still one species. As the

explains, they always have a white belly in common, the coat color is primarily genetic and from environmental influences such as climate and altitude.

In order to better camouflage themselves from enemies, the animals in coniferous forests, for example, are usually darker in color than in light-colored deciduous forests.

In winter, the coat color also darkens.

According to the

, however, North American gray squirrels could spread more and more in Europe in the next few years.

Originally naturalized in England and kept in captivity, the animals were released out of pity in 1876 and have since bred in Britain and well.

Gray squirrels have also been released in northern Italy since 1948.

You can find even more exciting garden topics in the regular newsletter of our partner 24garten.de.

Gray Squirrel: Your virus can wipe out the native squirrels

The migratory animals could certainly become a threat to the native squirrels, because the gray squirrels are more robust and adaptable, they find it easier to search for food and they have fewer predators.

They also carry the squirrelpox virus, a smallpox virus that doesn't affect them but can be fatal to European squirrels.

At the moment there are controls and prosecutions and an attempt to develop a vaccination for the native squirrels.

Determining feathers: how well do you know them?

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If you spot a gray squirrel, it's unlikely that it's the North American species, but rather a coat color variant of the native species. One noticeable difference: Gray squirrels don't have brush ears.

If you want to lure squirrels into your garden or onto your balcony, you can help them build a nest or offer them food - but no peanuts, please.