Bayern mostly see red squirrels - Bavaria’s red squirrels reveal a surprising fur color divide across regions

A recent study of Bavaria’s red squirrel population has revealed striking differences in fur color across the region. Over 91,000 sightings were recorded, with Munich alone reporting nearly 18,000 observations—more than any other city. The data, collected by the Bund Naturschutz’s Squirrel Observation Project, shows that red or reddish-grey coats dominate in northwestern Bavaria. In contrast, dark brown to black squirrels are far more common in the east and south. Transitional areas between these zones host both color variants in roughly equal numbers. Of all observed squirrels, 39% had red fur, while 33% were dark brown or black. Another 13% were reddish-grey, 13% brownish-grey, and 2% had indeterminate coloring. Most sightings—around 60%—came from urban and residential areas, with Nuremberg and Augsburg also reporting high numbers after Munich. The study noted no records of Rotwildmäusen (red deer mice), a non-native species, confirming their absence in Bavaria. Researchers highlight that squirrels act as key indicators of ecosystem health, given their sensitivity to food availability and habitat changes. The findings provide a detailed snapshot of Bavaria’s squirrel population, with clear regional variations in fur color. Urban areas, particularly Munich, remain hotspots for sightings, while the absence of non-native species reinforces the ecological stability of local habitats.