Also known as the chickarees or the pine squirrel. Here is another animal that needs an experienced keeper for the breeding stock. These animals can be kept in pairs if you supply large enough cages and have two nest boxes. You can not house more than a pair together. The food for these animals is the same as with the Asian Chipmunks except that the Red Squirrel does eat meat on a regular basis. In the wild the animals do kill and eat baby rabbits and mice. Weaning takes up to 56 days with litter sizes being up to 8 but average of four offspring. They can breed up to two times a year. This is a very nice animal if captive raised. They are quite vocal and affectionate. As with other squirrels they will mark their territory with urine. The claws will also shred most curtains in a matter of just a short period of time. This animal does not like dogs or cats and will not bond with either of the above. As with any of the squirrels large cages are necessary with climbing limbs. This animal is only in heat for 24 hours so breeding is for the experienced breeder. The average weight is about a half of a pound. The hand raised animals are a joy to have around. Raising this animal is highly rewarding.