Squirrels and Nature Photography

A Year with Sammy the Squirrel

At the beginning of 2024, my second-floor balcony in the heart of Karlsruhe received an unexpected visit: a small red squirrel discovered this spot for itself and me as a convenient food source. The curious squirrel, whom I soon named Sammy, has been strengthening herself daily with walnuts, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, or carrots. In return, I was able to capture many beautiful moments with my camera and was rewarded over the year with a special, intimate insight into the world and behavior of squirrels.

Sammy became a mother twice during this time. Her rounded belly and sore nipples were clear signs. My balcony had become so familiar to her that it was now also used as a refuge from the demanding young ones. For a short time, we were even visited by a young male squirrel, probably one of her offspring. But Sammy doesn’t like to share her territory.

As time passed, trust also grew. Occasionally, she even takes a nut directly from my hand. These special moments make up for all the flower pots she’s dug up.