According to IUCN, the Red-tailed squirrel is locally common throughout its range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.
How rare is a red squirrel?
The ever-popular red squirrel has been in decline since the early 20th century and has dwindled to an estimated population of only 140,000. This compares to the 2.5 million strong North American grey squirrel pushing it out of most areas since its introduction to the UK.
Why are red squirrels rare?
Red squirrels are now an endangered species due to the loss of their woodland habitat and the introduction of the American grey. Sadly, the greys carry the squirrelpox virus which can be deadly if transmitted to the reds.
Is the red squirrel endangered?
Вызывающие наименьшие опасения (Сокращается)Обыкновенная белка / Природоохранный статус
What does it mean if a squirrel has a red tail?
Several genes control coat color in eastern gray squirrels, and a particular combination has occurred to produce squirrels with reddish tails, flanks, or even over the whole body. Such changes could occur randomly over a couple of generations. The color might have been absent in the population a few years before.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
Do you get black squirrels in the UK?How many red squirrel are left in the UK?
