The grey squirrel was introduced into the UK in the 1800s. It provides an easy encounter with wildlife for many people, but can be damaging to woodlands and has contributed to the decline of the red squirrel.

Scientific name

Sciurus carolinensis

When to see

January to December

One of our most familiar mammals, the grey squirrel 

can be found in woods, gardens and parks across town and 

country, and often proves to be very tame. It is a frequent 

visitor to gardens with bird tables and feeders. Grey squirrels 

feast on hazelnuts by cracking the shell in half. You may 

also find pine cones that have been nibbled, leaving what

 looks like an apple core behind. They will cache their food in 

autumn if it is abundant. Grey squirrels make a rough nest, 

called a 'drey' out of twigs, leaves and strips of bark in the fork 

of a branch, high up in the tree canopy. Females may have 

two litters of three to four young a year.

The grey squirrel has a silver-grey coat, with a brownish face

 and feet, and pale underside. It has a characteristically bushy tail. 

It is distinguished from the red squirrel by its 

larger size, grey fur, and smaller ears without tufts. 

However, grey squirrels can vary in colour, with some

 appearing slightly ginger.