Images Photographs: Red Squirrels
Formby Dunes and Lake District

Formby Dunes near Liverpool, is one of the last remaining red squirrel strongholds in Britain. The Dunes, an area of sand dune forested with Scotch Pine trees, backs on to the Irish Sea. Particularly in winter and early morning or late evening the squirrels will approach close to you , especially if you are prepared to keep still or make no sudden movements. Notice the long hair tufts on the ears of males in Summer.

Red squirrels do not hibernate. They seek shelter in dreys, round structures, the size of a football, made of twigs,leaves and moss. Mating occurs in winter. Five weeks later between 3 to 8 blind and naked babies are born. These remain with their parents for only 10 weeks, after which the young squirrels lead independent lives.