The North American Red Squirrels [Tamiasciurus hudsonicus] think they rule the roost around here. They are bold and loud if you challenge them and aggressive with birds when there's sunflower seeds for the taking.
They are about 30 cm long. They live in woodlands throughout most of Canada, preferably in areas with spruce and pine trees. They eat according to what is available --- mainly seeds, nuts and cones of conifers; buds, flowers bark, berries, and mushrooms; also insects, eggs, mice and young of small mammals when the opportunity arises.
Red squirrels stay active during the winter months, often building an extensive system of tunnels in the snow. They feed on food caches collected during summer and fall. They are preyed upon by a large number of critters --- hawks, owls, marten, fisher, lynx, bobcats, fox, wolves and coyotes but manage to keep their numbers up because a female will produce a litter of 2 to 7 offspring each year, and in some years, two litters! Yikes, that's why we have so many on our property!
Fabulous theme shot of a very cute mammal! As a science teacher, I really appreciate your informative commentary. Great research to match a great image.
We used to have a lot of red squirrels around here when I was growing up and there were just a few gray squirrels. Gordon, where I was born, had coal black squirrels. Anyhow, the red squirrels were run out buy the gray squirrels. I have not seen a red squirrel in 50 years or more.
Fantastic shot. FAV! This is such a great capture and the depth of field is divine. My family is visiting Ontario in August this year (Niagara Falls). Hope we see some of these cheeky guys there. Welcome to 365!
Abe, I've read that the red squirrels are being pushed out, just as you say. That's too bad. We have a couple of grey squirrels and several black ones but the red ones still thrive along with them, at least so far.
Allison, thanks for the suggestion. I'll try that!
Kerry, thanks for the 365 welcome. I'm enjoying the pics, the contact with people from all over the world, and also, the incentive to get out and do something with the camera. I hope you have a wonderful visit to Ontario.
Thanks so much to all of you for the encouragement.
Abe, I've read that the red squirrels are being pushed out, just as you say. That's too bad. We have a couple of grey squirrels and several black ones but the red ones still thrive along with them, at least so far.
Allison, thanks for the suggestion. I'll try that!
Kerry, thanks for the 365 welcome. I'm enjoying the pics, the contact with people from all over the world, and also, the incentive to get out and do something with the camera. I hope you have a wonderful visit to Ontario.
Thanks so much to all of you for the encouragement.