A squirrel was filmed in the Chernobyl zone: how the animal survives in a radiation desert.

A local resident - a squirrel or common squirrel - was discovered in the Chernobyl zone. The fluffy animal, known for its well-thought-out nests in places where life seems impossible, was filmed by the employees of the Chernobyl Nature Reserve.

The photo was shared by the press service of the Radiation-Ecological Biosphere Reserve on their Facebook page.

Squirrels in Chernobyl

Researchers noted that squirrels are true forest architects, as their nests (called dreys) are very well planned and impressively sturdy: built from twigs, leaves, and moss high in the trees. Inside, they line it with moss, grass, and shredded bark, and also leave branches sticking out of the drey to make it easier to escape from uninvited guests.

One squirrel can have several such nests, one of which is permanent. In it, they can live for 4-7 months.

In the Chernobyl zone, squirrels live in oak forests or abandoned villages, often even making nests in abandoned houses. They choose locations for their homes where wild nuts grow.

In managed forests, where there is a shortage of tree hollows, nesting boxes are provided for squirrels. In Poland, more than 25 types of such boxes are used, where not only squirrels but also birds live. Since the squirrel population in Ukraine is viable, such artificial habitats are rarely used.

Other unexpected findings in Chernobyl

Recently, a camera trap captured a huge rare predator for these forests - a brown bear. Also, other unusual inhabitants were discovered in the exclusion zone. Reserve workers noted an entire family.

The excluded zone of Chernobyl continues to amaze us with its rich ecosystem and observations of rare animals. The finding of the squirrel in this area once again emphasizes the importance of preserving nature and its unique environment, even after the event that happened more than 35 years ago.