Garden visitor: the red squirrel

The presence of the red squirrel in a garden is often seen as a delightful sight, but its role goes far beyond visual pleasure. Indeed, this small mammal contributes significantly to biodiversity and to the balance of the ecosystem. Thanks to its varied diet, the red squirrel actively participates in the dispersal of seeds. By burying nuts or other seeds for its winter stores, it promotes the growth of new plants, thus enriching the local flora. This action is particularly beneficial in gardens where plant diversity can sometimes be limited.

Not only does it help with the propagation of plants, but it is also a key element of the food chain. As prey for certain predators, such as birds of prey, it helps to regulate their populations, thereby ensuring a balance between species. Moreover, its ceaseless activity in searching for food creates dynamics that can positively affect the soil ecosystem, notably by contributing to soil aeration.

Far more than a mere visitor, the red squirrel is therefore a leading ecological actor. Its presence in gardens is an indicator of good environmental health, and its protection consequently becomes a priority for anyone wishing to maintain a rich and diverse green space. It embodies the symbiosis between fauna and flora, and attests to the richness and balance of a healthy ecosystem.

The red squirrel, with its bright fur and agile movements, is often associated with the image of a mischievous little elf scampering happily through the trees. While its cute appearance and playful gait delight young and old alike, the potential damage it can cause in a garden should not be overlooked. Among the most common nuisances, emptying bird feeders is a recurring problem for birdwatching enthusiasts. With its great agility and sense of balance, the squirrel can easily reach feeders and consume their contents, much to the dismay of the garden’s birds who find themselves deprived of their food source.

Furthermore, this small animal can also damage plants by digging in the soil to hide its food stores. The bulbs of certain ornamental plants can thus be unearthed, compromising their future growth. Its taste for fruit can also be a problem, especially if your garden contains fruit trees. Partially eaten and then abandoned apples, cherries or peaches can quickly become a source of frustration for the gardener who had placed great hopes in their harvest.

Despite these inconveniences, it is important to remember that the red squirrel is a living being that is an integral part of our ecosystem. Before taking drastic measures to drive away this mischievous visitor, it is worth considering solutions that are more respectful of biodiversity, such as installing squirrel-proof bird feeders or choosing plantings that are less attractive to these small rodents. In this way, it is possible to coexist peacefully with this charming, but sometimes disruptive, resident of our gardens.

The squirrel will tend to enjoy the garden’s hazelnuts more than you will!

Living peacefully with these little creatures is entirely possible with a few adjustments and precautions. To limit the “damage” to your plantings, you can opt for plants that are less attractive to squirrels. For example, strongly scented species such as rosemary or lavender tend to repel them.

To prevent your bird feeders from being raided, consider installing models specifically designed to be inaccessible to squirrels. These feeders often have mechanisms that close when a squirrel tries to access the food. You can also install guards around tree trunks to stop the squirrel from climbing.

If you want to feed squirrels rather than deter them, corn (preferably on the cob, but definitely not tinned sweetcorn!) is a good option, as they love it. Don’t overdo it, however, and try to vary the menu with hazelnuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds, but also fruits and vegetables such as apples, grapes, a carrot. Be sure to place them at a reasonable distance from the areas you want to protect and don’t forget a bowl of fresh water! 

On the other hand, if your aim is to repel squirrels, capsaicin-based repellents can be effective. Capsaicin is a natural substance found in chillies that disturbs the animal’s senses without causing it harm. It will move on, probably cursing you for the slight detour you’ve forced it to take.

Ultimately, living with a squirrel requires a bit of thought and preparation, but the results are worth it. Not only will you protect your garden, but you will also contribute to a healthier, more balanced ecosystem.