Tartu installs rope bridges for squirrels over roads

New project to protect squirrels

The city of Tartu has installed its first so-called squirrel bridges – special rope structures connecting trees, enabling squirrels to cross roads without going down to the ground. These bridges are intended to reduce squirrel fatalities under car wheels.

Toomemägi and Tähtvere parks are among the most popular squirrel habitats in Tartu, but roads dividing the green areas pose a serious danger to the animals. Scientists point out that every year many dead squirrels are found on that particular road section.

Why squirrels cross the road

Jeffrey James Mahlerbe-Carbilliet, an animal ecology researcher at the University of Tartu, explains that squirrels regularly cross the road to reach nearby private gardens, which offer a rich variety of fruits, vegetables, seeds and other food. That's why this location was chosen for the bridges.

Similar squirrel bridges are already used in several European countries, where they have proven effective. The Tartu project is based on that international experience.

Installation and design

Specialists from the AHHAA science centre helped manufacture and install the structure. During installation, the tilt of the tree to which one side of the rope crossing is attached had to be taken into account. Since the tree is noticeably leaning, counterweights were installed – two 40-kilogram weights – to keep it stable and safe for the road and traffic.

Acclimatising the squirrels

According to experts, squirrels should quickly learn to use the new crossings. Initially, a small amount of food may be placed near the bridge to attract the animals and help them discover it. After that, no additional feeding will be needed – the squirrels will understand it is the best route and use it consistently.

Broader project

The squirrel bridges are only part of a larger initiative aimed at preserving animal habitats and connecting green areas. Scientists emphasise that helping squirrels supports the entire ecosystem – vegetation, birds and overall urban biodiversity. Squirrels are considered one of the best indicators of biodiversity and the health of urban nature.

If the project proves successful, a similar squirrel bridge could be installed in Tallinn in the future.