Squirrels getting ready for winter

The weather has been a lot colder this week with a dusting of snow settling on the mountains around Loch Ness and also on lower ground for a short while. The native red squirrels in the surrounding woodlands are preparing for the cold winter weather ahead. The red squirrel sheds its coat twice a year, switching from a thinner summer coat to a thicker, darker winter coat for extra warmth. At this time of year the red squirrels also displays striking ear tufts - a prominent distinguishing feature of this species - which can be between 2 – 3.5 cms long and give them their appealing appearance.