Furtive shadows flicker. That’s the first hint you might see an inhabitant of Allée de l’Écureuil. This isn’t just any path. It is a place where the wild heart of Paris beats strong. We are here to uncover the secrets of the red squirrel. They live right here in Paris.
Allée de l’Écureuil. It translates to Squirrel Alley. Its name hints at its furry residents. These squirrels are not foreign invaders. They are the only wild squirrel species native to France. They live all across the country, even here.
These creatures climb. They leap. They descend tree trunks headfirst. You might have already seen one here in Paris. The red squirrel loves to nibble. Conifer seeds are a favorite. Beechnuts, walnuts, hazelnuts and acorns also please them. Berries, buds, floral buttons, and mushrooms fill their bellies. They rarely eat insects, bird eggs, or fledglings. They usually feed high in the trees. There they stay safe from danger.
These squirrels are forgetful creatures. They spend their time burying seeds. They create reserves and then they forget them. This helps trees and shrubs. Squirrels help spread them. You can spot the Eurasian red squirrel in large green spaces. Visit the Bois de Vincennes. Explore Parc Montsouris. Discover the Bois de Boulogne. Wander through the Montmartre Cemetery. Visit the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. Even the Petite Ceinture hosts them. They are also present in Parisian cemeteries outside the city. Bagneux and Thiais cemeteries are good places to look.
They are most active in the morning. The late afternoon is also a good time to watch. Choose the right moment. Let chance do its work. You might glimpse their stealthy form. It can be hard to spot their young. They have one or two litters a year. Each litter has three to four young. Their ball-shaped nests hang high in the trees.
Paris garden managers are fond of these furtive visitors. They easily follow recommendations. They encourage squirrels to nest in their gardens. Sometimes, they install “éco-ducts”. These are bridges between trees. They use ropes to create them. This lets the squirrels move safely. They can travel from tree to tree without worry.
Imagine a tiny rope bridge. Squirrels scamper across it. They avoid the dangers of the ground. That’s the kind of care Paris gives its squirrels. So, as you walk along Allée de l’Écureuil remember to look up. You might see a flash of red fur. You might witness the secret life of Paris. It’s a life lived among the trees. It is a life full of nuts and forgotten treasures.
Allée de l’Écureuil isn’t just a path. It’s a reminder. Even in a bustling city wildness finds a way. Keep your eyes open and your heart ready. The squirrels of Paris await.