Eurasian Red Squirrel

The Eurasian red squirrel is a long-tailed tree squirrel whose coat varies exceptionally widely, from pale red through brown to nearly black. Except in completely dark individuals, the underside is white or creamy. Long ear tufts and a full, furry tail are characteristic. Its winter coat is thicker, has longer ear tufts and extends farther over the soles of the feet than the summer coat. (Animal Diversity Web)

The species inhabits mature deciduous and coniferous forests across northern Eurasia, nesting in tree cavities and maintaining several alternative retreats. It forages for conifer seeds, beechnuts, acorns and other nuts, supplementing these with fungi, sap and occasional eggs. Food is cached in soil or bark. Females generally produce two litters per year, usually containing five to seven young after a gestation of 38–39 days. (Animal Diversity Web)