Squirrel Nation: Reds, Greys and the Meaning of Home

Squirrel Nation is a book about the history of Britain's two squirrel species, the red and grey squirrels, and explores issues of belonging, nationalism, citizenship, and the defense of borders. It shows that the two species have more in common than first appears.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 14 August 2023
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Squirrel Nation is a captivating journey through the history of Britain's two squirrel species over the past two hundred years. While the red squirrel, a rare and cherished native species, holds a special place in the hearts of many Britons, the grey squirrel, by contrast, is a ubiquitous presence in our gardens, parks, towns, and countryside. Despite its widespread presence, the grey squirrel is often viewed as an invasive foreign interloper, believed to have been introduced from North America in the late nineteenth century.

In his insightful book, Peter Coates delves into the intricate colonization of the grey squirrel in Britain, exploring themes of belonging, nationalism, citizenship, and the defense of borders within the country today. Through his meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, Coates reveals that Britain's two squirrel species share much more than initially meets the eye.

While people may be quick to draw distinctions between British squirrels and squirrels in Britain, Squirrel Nation serves as a reminder that these animals are interconnected and play important roles in their respective ecosystems. The book sheds light on the complex dynamics between different species, the challenges they face, and the strategies they employ to thrive in their environments.

One of the key insights offered by Squirrel Nation is the importance of understanding the historical context in which these squirrels have evolved. Coates traces the origins of the grey squirrel back to North America, where it was introduced by European settlers. However, over time, the squirrel has adapted to its new environment and has become a dominant species in many parts of Britain.

The book also explores the cultural and societal implications of the grey squirrel's presence. Many Britons view the grey squirrel as a symbol of foreign invasion and a threat to the native red squirrel population. However, Coates argues that the grey squirrel's presence should be seen as a natural part of the ecosystem and that it has brought benefits to both species.

For example, the grey squirrel has a higher reproductive rate than the red squirrel, which means that it can spread more quickly and populate new areas. This has led to the expansion of the grey squirrel population in many parts of Britain, particularly in urban areas where it thrives in parks and gardens.

At the same time, the grey squirrel has also provided opportunities for conservation efforts. The presence of the grey squirrel has led to increased awareness of the importance of protecting and preserving natural habitats, as well as the need to manage invasive species.

Another interesting aspect of Squirrel Nation is the role that the grey squirrel plays in British culture and folklore. The squirrel has been depicted in various forms in literature, art, and popular culture, often symbolizing intelligence, adaptability, and cunning.

In conclusion, Squirrel Nation is a thought-provoking and informative book that offers a fresh perspective on Britain's two squirrel species. By examining the history, ecology, and cultural significance of these animals, Peter Coates provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of species colonization, biodiversity, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in nature, conservation, and the fascinating world of squirrels.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 223 x 145 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789147704