Eurasian red squirrel

Systematic position: The Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) belongs to the order Rodentia and the family Sciuridae. While widely regarded as a forest species, in agricultural and residential settings, it is recognized as a pest due to its destructive feeding habits on crops and nursery stock.

Crops damaged: The squirrel primarily affects fruit-bearing trees such as apples, pears, hazelnuts, and walnuts. Furthermore, it causes significant damage in forestry by consuming seeds and buds of coniferous trees like pines and spruces, which hinders natural regeneration and nursery productivity.

Biology and development: This species is highly adaptive and thrives in diverse habitats. Under favorable conditions, females can produce two litters per year, with 3–7 offspring each. Their year-round activity and high metabolic rate necessitate constant foraging, leading them to strip bark and consume reproductive buds during food-scarce winter months.

Type of damage and harmfulness: The damage is manifested by the destruction of plant reproductive tissues, including flowers, buds, and fruit. By gnawing on bark and tender shoots, squirrels cause branch dieback and create entry points for pathogens. In plantations, terminal bud damage leads to stunted growth and structural deformation of young timber trees.

Protection measures: Effective control strategies include installing metal baffles or guards on trunks to prevent climbing. Additionally, ultrasonic repellers and visual deterrents can reduce squirrel activity.

• Install protective tree guards.
• Use netting for young valuable trees.
• Remove bird feeders that attract squirrels near crops.