The overall size of the Irish Red Squirrel is around 25 to 30 cm long, not including the tail, which can add another 20 cm.
When I saw the Irish Red Squirrel, I felt a sense of awe and delight. Its quick movements as it darted across the forest floor were mesmerizing. Watching it effortlessly climb the trees gave me a deep appreciation for its agility. The striking red fur stood out so vividly against the green backdrop. For a moment, I felt connected to nature in a way that was both peaceful and exciting. It was like witnessing a living piece of the Irish wilderness in action.
The Irish Red Squirrel is primarily found in woodlands, particularly in coniferous forests and mixed woodlands. It prefers areas with dense tree cover, which offer both food sources and shelter. In Ireland, it is most commonly spotted in rural areas with extensive forests, such as in Kerry, Wicklow, and Donegal.
The Irish Red Squirrel uses its environment in several clever ways to survive. It relies heavily on the trees that make up its woodland habitat, using them as both a source of food and shelter. The squirrel feeds on a variety of items found in the canopy, including nuts, seeds, and fungi. It stores surplus food in hidden caches during autumn to get through the colder months when food is scarce. The dense tree cover also provides safety from predators, as the squirrel is agile and can quickly climb to safety.
Its bushy tail helps with balance as it leaps between branches and also provides warmth in colder weather.
