SQUIRREL 



such a universal favourite. True enough, it is disliked 

 by game-keepers, because it purloins the eggs and young of 

 birds, and by foresters because it does damage in planta- 

 tions, but with these notable exceptions, it is everybody's 

 friend. It is pleasant to hear, therefore, that in spite of 

 its grey cousin's introduction, the European Squirrel is 

 extending its range in several localities. 



In answer to a question, set in an examination paper 

 at one of the schools which we visit for Nature-study 

 classes, and having reference to hibernating animals, the 

 Squirrel was, without exception, included in every reply 

 handed in. This tempts us to point out that, although 

 less active in Winter, this rodent does not fall into a 

 torpid state, though it is quite true that it lays up a store 

 of nuts, acorns, and other provender in a Winter larder so 

 as to keep it going through the hard weather. We have 

 more than once seen it quietly eating its Christmas 

 dinner, and then frolicking about in the pleasant manner 

 it is wont to do. In addition to the food mentioned, 

 various kinds of fungi and fruit are also taken. 



Activity seems one of the important phases of its 



existence, and it reminds us in this respect of the energetic 



little Tree Creeper, and the acrobatic Titmice, who never 



seem happier than when searching assiduously for lurking 



insects in the crevices of bark and other places. It 



builds both a Summer and Winter nest. In the former 



the young are, of course, sheltered, the latter serving as 



a comfortable abode in which to spend the colder months 



of the year. Three or four constitute the litter, and 



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