Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Caucasian Squirrel

Scientific name: Sciurus anomalus


Caucasian Squirrel

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: SCIURIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-30.04

Gestation: 28–35 jours

Births: 01.05-31.07


Habitat:
deciduous forests, mixed forests, wooded areas

Description:
The Caucasian squirrel, or Sciurus anomalus, is a small tree-dwelling rodent found mainly in the deciduous and mixed forests of the Middle East, particularly in Turkey, Iran, and parts of the Caucasus. It is characterized by its reddish-brown fur, bushy tail, and ears adorned with small tufts of hair. Primarily active during the day, it spends much of its time climbing trees in search of food, mainly seeds, nuts, and fruits. Although generally solitary, it can sometimes be seen in small groups, especially during the breeding season. Its ability to adapt to different habitats allows it to survive in various environments, although deforestation poses a threat to its populations.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Caucasian squirrel, choose sunny mornings when natural light highlights the details of its fur. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture sharp images from a distance without disturbing the animal. Be patient and discreet, as this squirrel is suspicious and can be difficult to approach. Look for it in deciduous and mixed forests, where it is often active searching for food. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera and achieve precise shots.

Ready to take action?

Choose your platform and start your free trial today