Common squirrel

The Common Squirrel is a small arboreal mammal that measures about 25 cm in length, not including the tail, which can be 15 to 20 cm long. Its weight varies between 250 and 340 grams. The long tail plays a crucial role in its balance while jumping between trees and while running on branches. It also serves as a thermal tool, helping to maintain body heat while resting. During courtship, the tail is raised and waved as a visual signal.
Coat coloration is highly variable and can range from reddish brown to dark brown, with shades depending on factors such as climate, surrounding vegetation, diet, and genetics. The lower part of the body is always white, contrasting with the back. The hind legs are longer than the front legs, allowing the squirrel to move nimbly over the ground. With strong nails and plantar pads, the squirrel is an excellent climber, able to climb trees with great skill, even over overhanging branches.
The common squirrel is widespread in much of Italy, but is absent in heavily urbanized, non-forested areas, such as the lower Po Valley, the Adriatic coastal area (except the Gargano), some areas of Calabria, and on islands. In Valle d'Aosta it can be found up to the upper limit of vegetation. However, the population in Piedmont is seriously endangered by the increasing presence of the gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), a species accidentally introduced in 1948. This larger and more aggressive squirrel is expanding rapidly, threatening the survival of the common squirrel in northern and central Italy.
The common squirrel prefers forest environments, both coniferous and deciduous, where it finds shelter and food in abundance.