Red Squirrel
Sciurus vulgaris
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The red squirrel at Formby is an icon. This is one of the most accessible populations in England, managed carefully by the National Trust, and a visit in autumn or winter almost always produces sightings. They've been lost from most of England, outcompeted and displaced by introduced Grey Squirrels. Formby's isolated pinewood population survives because Grey Squirrels struggle in pure pine — there's not enough food for them, but the reds are adapted to pine seed. The squirrel trail is well-signed and early morning gives the best chance.
At a Glance
| Order | Rodentia |
| Family | Sciuridae |
| Habitat | Coniferous pinewood · Mixed woodland edge |
| Diet | Pine seeds, acorns, hazelnuts, fungi, bark, insects — caches food for winter |
| UK population | Around 140,000 — 85% in Scotland; fewer than 20,000 in England, mostly in the north |
| Sefton Coast | Isolated but stable population of around 1,000–1,500 individuals in the Formby pinewoods; one of England's most accessible wild populations |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
National Trust pinewoods at Formby — the red squirrel trail from the NT car park (L37 1YH). Feeding platforms along the trail are baited to bring them close.
Identification
Smaller and more slender than Grey Squirrel. Russet-red coat (can be darker in winter, occasionally near-black). Ear tufts in winter — distinctive. No grey colouring. Much more compact than Grey Squirrel.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Go early morning (8–10am) in autumn. Bring binoculars and keep quiet near the feeding platforms. Dogs must be on leads. Autumn is best — they spend more time on the ground caching seeds.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is of serious conservation concern in the UK. Its presence on the Sefton Coast is important for local and national monitoring and habitat management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to see Red Squirrels at Formby?
The National Trust Red Squirrel Trail at Formby (postcode L37 1YH) is the most reliable spot in England to see red squirrels. Follow the trail from the NT car park — the feeding platforms along the route are baited and squirrels visit regularly. Arrive early morning (8–10am) for the best chance, especially in autumn.
Why do Red Squirrels survive at Formby when they've been lost elsewhere?
Formby's pinewoods are dominated by Scots Pine, which produces small seeds that Red Squirrels can efficiently harvest but Grey Squirrels struggle with. The isolation of the pinewood also slows recolonisation by Greys. The National Trust actively manages the woodland and controls Grey Squirrel numbers to protect the population.
How many Red Squirrels are at Formby?
The Formby population is estimated at 1,000–1,500 individuals, making it one of the larger Red Squirrel populations in England. It is considered a key conservation site and the National Trust invests significantly in habitat management and monitoring.
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.