We’re continuing our series on Bukovel’s flora and fauna, shining a light on the fascinating wildlife that calls our resort home.
As you stroll along Bukovel’s scenic trails, keep your eyes peeled – you might just spot one of the forest’s most charming little dwellers, the Carpathian squirrel (or Eurasian red squirrel).
These quick, nimble creatures dart effortlessly through the treetops, sprint up and down tree trunks, and make spectacular leaps across the forest floor. Every now and then, they might pause mid-scurry, their curious eyes fixed on you from a safe perch.
Their favorite homes? Coniferous and mixed forests, rich in food and safe hiding spots. Squirrels build cozy nests – or “dreys” – from twigs, moss, lichen, and bits of fur, tucked high in branches or inside tree hollows. These snug shelters protect them from harsh weather and predators and serve as nurseries for their young. A mother squirrel typically raises two litters a year, with 3–5 tiny kits each time.
And these little creatures aren’t just adorable – they’re vital to the forest’s life cycle. Famous for their voracious appetites, squirrels can devour hundreds of pine cones and nuts in a single day. But here’s their secret superpower: their forgetfulness. The nuts they bury and fail to retrieve often sprout into new trees, helping to regenerate the forest.
In winter, squirrels don’t hibernate. Instead, they stay tucked in their nests during the chilliest days, emerging when the weather softens.
At Bukovel, there’s a great chance you’ll encounter these fluffy forest guardians. Feel free to snap a photo, but please don’t disturb them – this is their home, and we’re their guests.
The Carpathian squirrel isn’t just a cute face; it’s a vital part of the ecosystem, a living emblem of the Carpathians’ beauty and biodiversity.
Take a moment to watch them – you’ll feel a deeper connection to nature and take home memories you won’t soon forget.
Plan your trip and experience the magic of meeting these delightful creatures in their natural habitat!
Previously in our flora and fauna series, we explored wild bees, the fish of Lake of Youth, and the elusive Carpathian newt.