Apart from their eponymous colour, Red Squirrels are known for their delightfully expressive ear tufts.
The new year is mating time, when males chase females in spiralling ribbons around tree trunks. However, these beloved UK natives are under threat.
Watch a Red Squirrel as it searches for food. Video: @RSPBvideo
Grey Squirrels outcompete reds for food and habitat and spread a deadly squirrelpox that they themselves are immune to. Various interventions, such as trials of a vaccine, are ongoing to help the reds, aided by public support for expanding connected habitats of well-managed, mixed woodland.
RSPB Brading Marshes on the Isle of Wight and RSPB Wood of Cree in Dumfries and Galloway are places to see reds.
Check out the live Red Squirrel feeder cam at RSPB Loch Leven. @RSPBvideo
