Eurasian Red Squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in Wildlife Rehabilitation Centres: Causes of Admission, Outcomes, and Seasonal Trends in the Czech Republic

The Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) is considered an indicator species in relation to forest ecosystems as well as the coexistence of wildlife and humans in urbanized environments. This study focused on the intake of Eurasian red squirrels into rehabilitation centres in the Czech Republic between 2010 and 2020. A total of 5365 individuals were admitted, with an increasing trend in admissions over this period (rSp = 0.9727, p < 0.05). The highest number of squirrels was admitted in 2020 (p < 0.05), while the highest monthly number was recorded in April (p < 0.05). The most frequently admitted cases were orphaned juveniles (57.93%), followed by juveniles from threatened nests (17.78%). A substantial proportion of Eurasian red squirrels were released back into the wild (52.69%); however, a considerable number died (28.15%) or were euthanized (3.37%), with the proportions of mortality, release, and other outcomes varying according to the reason for admission. Mortality occurred most frequently in cases of vehicle collisions, whereas the highest proportion of animals released back into the wild was observed among juveniles from threatened nests. Juveniles from threatened nests also spent the longest time in rehabilitation centres prior to release, together with individuals admitted following animal attacks (p > 0.05; median lengths of stay: 66.0 and 70.5 days, respectively). Data from rehabilitation centres can contribute to more effective care for injured or weakened wild animals and improved preparedness of these centres during the busiest period of the year, improved prognostic evaluation and targeted field interventions aimed at reducing negative anthropogenic impacts on wildlife.