Red squirrel

Track index (tracks/10 km/24 hours) of the squirrel in 50 km x 50 km squares in the winter of 2008. Significant changes between 2007 and 2008 are presented in smaller maps.

The track density of squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) increased 1.8-fold from that of 2007, the highest growth rate among the populous species censused. However, strong annual growth is typical for squirrels and has taken place on four other occasions during the 20-year censusing period. Squirrels have good reproduction potential as long as circumstances are favourable. Reciprocal population decreases are also drastic in nature. The population change between 2007 and 2008 had a distinct regional feature: the population grew rapidly in southern and central Finland, but decreased in Lapland. For example, in the Kymi game district, the track densities were the third-highest in the censusing period, but in Lapland, densities were the fifth-worst on record.

Track index of squirrel (tracks/10 km/24 h) in 1989-2008, by game district.

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