Ireland's native red squirrels are able to detect and respond to a returning natural predator, the pine marten, according to a new study from the University of Galway.

The research has revealed that the red squirrels behavioural changes enhances their chance of survival.

This helps to explain the resilience of the animal, particularly in contrast to the sharp decline of the invasive grey squirrel, following the resurgence of the pine marten.

The study was co-authored by Dr. Emily Reilly and Dr. Colin Lawton from University of Galway.

Research into red squirrel behaviour was conducted over 16 months in woodland sites at Derryclare Woods, Connemara, Co. Galway, and Belleek Woods, Ballina Co. Mayo.

Using trail cameras at feeding stations, the researchers monitored and analysed visits by red squirrels and pine martens.

The researchers discovered that red squirrels showed an anti-predator response by feeding less and showing increased vigilance.

This indicates that the animals can detect recent pine marten presence and judge the level of threat based on how recently the presence occurred.

The researchers showed that the heightened caution demonstrated by the red squirrels faded over time.

This suggests, that they are capable of assessing the risk and adapting their responses accordingly.

According to the researchers, rising pine marten populations have led to a sharp decline in grey squirrel numbers in recent years. Around the same time the red squirrel population has not only persisted, but increased.

The study suggests that this divergence in population is due to the red squirrel’s long evolutionary history with the pine marten, which has equipped the arboeal creature with instinctive behaviours that allow them to coexist with their natural predator.

Co-author of the study, the University of Galway's Dr. Emily Reilly said: "It is amazing to see the red squirrels respond to the presence of a pine marten that may have visited the feeding station hours or even days earlier.

"The research from our woodlands in the west of Ireland is a fascinating example of how the protection of native species, in this case, the pine marten, can help restore balance in the ecosystem,” Reilly added.