We are confident that we have baby squirrels at Kilnsey Park - we just haven’t seen them yet!  We can tell because of the physical signs that several of the females squirrels have been feeding their babies - and because of their enormous appetites!  But baby squirrels (kittens) are about 7 - 8 weeks old before they come out of the nesting boxes.

Generally, red squirrels will produce two litters of kittens throughout a good year, one usually in spring and then another in late summer. There are on average 3 kittens in a litter, and they are born blind, pink, hairless and toothless.   Their eyes open by the time they are 1 month old and from 7 weeks old they will leave their nesting box and start to eat solid food.

When the red squirrels are looking after their young we are extra careful to make sure they have their favourite food.  They are eating lots of sweetcorn, coconut, carrot, apples, hazelnuts, almonds, pine nuts, pecan nuts and walnuts.  Also the most important thing for pregnant and feeding red squirrels is antlers horn as it gives them the calcium they need.

Our red squirrels’ moult is now complete as their coats have changed colour to take on their beautiful deep red shade.  All of our red squirrels are very active and enjoying the improved weather. You’ll see them out playing - especially when it is a bright day.