To feed or not to feed?

Should I feed to my red squirrels?

Although many people feed red squirrels in their gardens, we actually have no definite evidence of how effective it is! This needs more research. There is, however, some concern that feeding many squirrels in one place might increases pread of disease amongst the reds, which would be counter-productive. Given the lack of proof and these concerms, Red Alert North West does not generally recommend the feeding of red squirrels, but if you choose to, it is important to do it in the best possible manner.

Our advice differs slightly depending upon your situation and whether there are only reds present, or if greys are in the area too. See below for more information.

Red-only areas

A healthy red squirrel population in an area free of
grey squirrels should be able to survive with natural food. Although feeding may not be a good idea, Red Alert appreciates that reds are attracted to bird feeders anyway, even if there was no intention of feeding the squirrels in the first instance. As we simply do not know, it is also possible that supplementary feeding may help red squirrels at times of year when food is in short supply.

Red and grey areas

Where there are both red and grey squirrels we would not normally advise that you feed the squirrels at all. The main reason for this is that enabling reds and greys to mix may increase likelihood of disease outbreak. If reds catch the squirrel pox virus from the greys they will almost certainly die out in your local area. If you are to, in these instances it is essential in such areas that food is provided in a feeder which delivers food only to red squirrels and not to greys.

Follow the links on the menu. Over the following pages, our guidance about feeder type, the best sort of food, cleaning and location will ensure that you help keep as healthy a red squirrel population as possible.

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