This monograph investigates the biological characteristics, behavioral patterns, and ecological impact of squirrel populations within the British Isles. Monica Shorten, a recognized authority in mammalogy, synthesizes extensive field observations and historical data to provide a comprehensive profile of these rodents. The text serves as a foundational reference for understanding the life cycles and environmental interactions of both native and introduced species.

The work is regarded as a definitive, classic reference within the New Naturalist series, valued for its rigorous scientific observation and historical depth. It remains a standard text for those seeking a detailed, scholarly examination of squirrel biology and ecology in Britain.