One such critter you’ll likely spy this season is the beautiful, yet feisty red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). Eurasian Red Squirrels live in Europe and Asia, and Grey Squirrels live in the USA. Sadly, most squirrels die within their first year. Squirrels typically live 2-3 years but can live up to 10 years. To preserve red squirrels, they must be kept apart from grey squirrels as the two species cannot live together long term. About Red Squirrels. What Do Red Squirrels Eat? Female flying squirrels nurse their young for approximately three months, which is when young flying squirrels learn how to glide. OUR DATA: We use the most recent data from these primary sources: AnAge, UMICH, Max Planck, PanTHERIA, Arkive, UKC, AKC. Fox squirrels and American red squirrels that only breed once per year will have half this many (3-27). Only about 22% of young survive to reach one year of age. The cold temperatures also make it hard for young reds to survive their 1st winter. Other than that, there really is no difference between them, only their color. Red Squirrels lead solitary lives, and each defends a territory of between 2 and 5 acres from others of the same species and from gray squirrels.. How long do Red Squirrels live? “Where do squirrels live?” is a question that can be answered by first looking at the type of squirrel itself and its behavioral patterns. How long do squirrels live? 1 They live in forests in the eastern part of North America. The red squirrels feed on mainly conifer seed and hazelnuts; the grey squirrels feed on acorns and hazelnuts. Unfortunately, without conservation management, red squirrels could become extinct in England in approximately 10 years. Reds live between 3 and 6 years. To preserve red squirrels, they must be kept apart from grey squirrels as the two species cannot live together long term. Since they require trees for gliding, flying squirrels usually live in dense forests. A squirrel lives in a nest known as a ‘drey’, comprising of a dense ball of interwoven twigs (roughly the size of a football), lined inside with soft materials including moss, leaves, grass and fir. They build nests in trees and houses. They will compete for vacant territory, create a new territory or receive part of their mother’s territory. As the name suggests, American red squirrels have orange-red fur, although it can be brown at certain times of the year. You see, squirrels usually live in wooded areas, since they are often found closer to the trees. Red Squirrel also relies on bird eggs and shoots for their dietary needs. American Red Squirrel. In fact, each red squirrel takes it upon him or herself to defend a territory that ranges in between two acres and five acres. With fall officially here to stay (for the time being), you’ll no doubt spot a variety of animals scurrying about as they make their winter preparations. One such critter you’ll likely spy this season is the beautiful, yet feisty red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). Like most squirrels, the American Red Squirrels have high early mortality. How long do Red Squirrel Live ? To preserve red squirrels, they must be kept apart from grey squirrels as the two species cannot live together long term. The oldest squirrel in the wild was 10 years old, and the oldest in captivity was 9 years old. How long do squirrels live in the wild? Dreys (Nests), Habitat and Food Squirrels are active all year round and do not hibernate. One study showed that females that survive to at least one year of age have an average life expectancy of 2.3 years. About 78 percent die before one year of age. Many red do not survive their 1st winter this can be because of starvation as they are unable to find food. ... Where do squirrels live? Six Things to Know about Red Squirrels! 3 Those that live to adulthood rarely die of “old age”, instead falling prey to raccoons, automobiles, or one of the numerous other dangers that beset normal squirrel life. Six Things to Know about Red Squirrels! This three-month period includes one month of weaning. What do Red Squirrels … Red squirrel – 3 to 5 years. In fact, only 25% of red squirrels survive past 1 year. Also known as the American red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), or the brown squirrel, this tree rodent is said to have a high mortality rate. When red squirrels are put under pressure, they will not breed as often. However, survival rates increase among the 22% increases to the age of 3 years. Red squirrels live long lives compared to their size. They tend to choose areas that are most readily able to suit their behavioral tendencies and fulfill their needs easily, such as shelter, food and protection. How Long Do Squirrels Live in the Wild? It is worth noting that eastern grey squirrels do not usually attack red squirrels, and direct violent conflict between these species is not a factor in the decline in red squirrel populations. Time is really running out to save our red squirrels. American red squirrels can live for up to 9 years.