Is the warmer weather to blame for our squirrels getting fatter?

Unlike hedgehogs, doormice and bats - squirrels don't hibernate in the winter. Credit: ITV West Country

Mild temperatures are having quite an impact on the region's wildlife - and one of the outcomes is the increasing waist size of squirrels.

Unlike hedgehogs, doormice and bats - squirrels don't hibernate in the Winter. Instead they survive the colder months with an extra layer of fat and a thicker coat.

Lots of seeds, nuts and fungi are a result of the mildest December on record which the squirrels are making the most of.

Not only was the average daytime maximum 5 degrees above average, but the nighttime minimum was 6 degrees above average, hence the reason there's so much food still available.

Lots of seeds, nuts and fungi are a result of the mildest December on record. Credit: ITV West Country

With colder weather on its way, they could be thankful for some extra insulation.