brown rodent on top of gray rock

What is the best time to see red squirrels at Formby?

The best time to see red squirrels at Formby is:


🕓 Early morning or late afternoon, especially on calm, dry days.

Red squirrels are most active when it’s quiet, cool, and less crowded—usually:

  • Around sunrise (7–9 AM)
  • Late afternoon (after 4 PM, depending on season)

🗓️ Best Season

🍂 Autumn (September–November)Top time to visit

  • Squirrels are busy gathering food, and more likely to be seen on the ground or dashing through the undergrowth.
  • Fewer leaves on trees = better visibility.

🌼 Spring (March–May)Also excellent

  • Squirrels are active after winter and may be spotted chasing each other during mating season.
  • You’ll often see them visiting feeders and scurrying through the pine canopy.

❄️ Winter – Still possible, but they’re quieter and more reserved.

☀️ Summer – Active, but more hidden during the hottest parts of the day.


📍 Where to Spot Them at Formby

  • Red Squirrel Trail near the Victoria Road National Trust car park
  • Around pinewoods and feeders (especially just behind the visitor information hut)
  • Stick to quiet woodland paths and keep noise low for better chances

🧺 Pro Tip:

  • Bring binoculars and a quiet attitude 😉
  • If you’re patient, you may even see them on the ground gathering cones or posing photogenically on tree stumps!