About Squirrels
Squirrels are some of the easiest winter wildlife visitors to spot.
On frosty mornings you might see them scampering along fences, darting up trees or digging for hidden treasure in the garden.
Although many people think squirrels hibernate, they stay active all winter and only curl up for extra naps when the weather turns bitterly cold.
Squirrels build warm, leafy nests called dreys. In winter they reinforce these with extra twigs and leaves to keep cosy, then head out during the day to search for food they buried in the autumn. They rely on these hidden stores, so it is normal to see them busy and determined as they dig.
Red, Grey and the Occasional Black Squirrel
Most garden visitors will be grey squirrels, who grow dense, fluffy winter coats.
In some parts of the UK, especially Scotland and northern woodlands, you may spot the more delicate red squirrel, which grows long, distinctive ear tufts during winter.
In a few pockets of Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire you might even see a black squirrel. These are simply melanistic grey squirrels with very dark fur, and spotting one can feel like meeting a little winter mystery.
How You Can Help Garden Squirrels in Winter
Small acts of kindness can make a difference, especially when natural food is scarce.
- Provide fresh water in a shallow bowl
- Leave safe, natural food such as hazelnuts, walnuts or sunflower seeds (unsalted and unflavoured)
- Avoid sugary or salted food that can make squirrels unwell
- Keep a quiet corner wild with leaves or shrubs for shelter
- Enjoy watching from a distance so squirrels feel safe and relaxed
These simple steps help squirrels, but also support birds, foxes and other winter visitors who share our gardens.
Did You Know?
- Squirrels bury far more food than they will ever find again
- Red squirrels prefer conifer seeds and fungi
- Grey squirrels are surprisingly good at remembering where their treasures are
- A squirrel’s tail helps them balance, leap and stay warm
- None of them hibernate – not even in deep winter