The grey squirrels have returned for the winter, I guess they know where the easy pickings are.

This morning one was silhouetted on the large Sycamore tree at early dawn. Great fun to watch them leaping from tree to tree, seems like it has made its winter home in a huge conifer in a neighbouring garden.

Last Winter and early Spring the squirrels after satisfying their hunger would continue to collect peanuts and bury them throughout the lawn. I must admit I did start to get a little concerned regarding the possible damage.

However, the Summer season arrived and the lawn looked as good as it ever did.

Although we do not object to the greys visiting us, I am well aware that they are thought to be a threat to our own indigenous red squirrels. In fact a possible cull of the greys in our area is being discussed at the moment.

I really am having difficulty with this one, on one hand, I can understand if the stronger greys are making life more difficult for the reds then it really would be a shame to endanger the very existence of one of our own creatures which have been declining over the years. Mind you before the mass killing takes place, I really would like to feel more convinced of the necessity.