Tartu installs its first squirrel bridges in Kassitoome and Tähtvere
Tartu City Government Press Release
/ As part of a joint effort by the City of Tartu, the University of Tartu and the AHHAA Science Centre, the first squirrel bridges have been installed in Kassitoome and at the edge of Tähtvere Park.
In recent years, the LIFE Tartu ROHEring project has strengthened and developed urban nature across the city. Small changes in the management of green areas have created better conditions for many species to return and increase their numbers. The restoration of suitable habitats and food sources has also brought a notable number of squirrels back to the city. Today, the Toomemägi and Tähtvere areas are home to many squirrels, which often need to cross roads while searching for food. To help them cross the busy Kreutzwaldi and Baeri streets more safely, special squirrel bridges have been installed.
The squirrel bridges consist of strong ropes attached between two trees or between a tree and a utility pole, allowing squirrels to move safely above the traffic. In the coming months, researchers will monitor how the bridges are used and collect data on their effectiveness. University of Tartu researchers encourage residents to report sightings of squirrels using the bridges. This information will help assess how well the solution works and whether similar bridges could be introduced in other parts of Tartu in the future.
The squirrel bridges are part of the LIFE Tartu ROHEring project, which aims to make the urban environment a better habitat for both wildlife and people.
The City of Tartu thanks the Orav family, whose yard provides one of the starting points for a squirrel bridge, and Elin Sild for leading the project.
Translation prepared with the help of AI.
Last changed 29.07.2026
