Why there squirrels in Paris?

Squirrels are indeed present in Paris, and while they are not native to the city, there are a few reasons for their presence:

Introduction as pets: Squirrels were likely introduced to Paris as exotic pets. People may have brought them from other regions or countries as a novelty, and some of these squirrels may have escaped or been released into the wild.

Parks and gardens: Paris is home to several large parks and gardens, such as the Bois de Boulogne and the Jardin des Plantes. These green spaces provide suitable habitats for squirrels, with plenty of trees, nuts, and seeds for them to feed on. The squirrels can find refuge and shelter within the parks, allowing their populations to thrive.

Adaptation and survival: Once introduced, squirrels have shown remarkable adaptability and resilience in urban environments. They are resourceful in finding food sources, including nuts, fruits, and even human-provided food scraps. Over time, they have established stable populations in various parts of the city, especially in parks and residential areas.

Limited predators: Unlike some other cities, Paris has a relatively low population of natural predators for squirrels, such as hawks or foxes. This reduced predation pressure allows the squirrel populations to grow and maintain their presence in the city.

It's important to note that while squirrels can add charm and a touch of nature to the Parisian environment, they can also cause some challenges. They may damage tree bark, consume bird food, and sometimes nest in attics or other structures, leading to conflicts with humans in urban areas. Nevertheless, squirrels have become a part of the urban biodiversity of Paris, coexisting with humans in the city's green spaces.