Residents living near Buile Hill Park have been left raising eyebrows – and, in some cases, their voices – after a spate of increasingly “unruly” squirrel behaviour, prompting the introduction of a proposed “Quiet Squirrels Policy.”

The issue has reportedly escalated in recent weeks following the reopening of the park’s historic grade 2 listed mansion, with visitors to the newly revived site and its Secret Garden Café said to be bearing the brunt of the unruly disturbance.

According to several accounts, groups of squirrels have been gathering near outdoor seating areas, engaging in what one visitor described as “persistent chattering, aggressive posturing, and – quite frankly – indecent nut displays.”

One café-goer said: “We were trying to enjoy a coffee as we take snaps for our Instagram pages and they just lined up along the wall, staring at us and… presenting their nuts. It was very uncomfortable. Especially for my 87 year old mother who was a war baby.”

Under the proposed policy, signage is expected to be installed across the park reminding squirrels – and park users – to keep noise levels down and maintain “appropriate behaviour in shared public spaces.” Draft guidance includes phrases such as “limit vocal disturbances,” “avoid confrontational tail movements,” and “no unsolicited nut displays.”

A spokesperson connected to the plans said the move is about “restoring balance” to the park environment, particularly as more visitors return to enjoy the refurbished mansion and surrounding grounds.

“There’s been a noticeable shift in squirrel behaviour,” they said. “They’ve become more confident, more territorial, and in some cases, a bit too familiar with visitors – especially around the café.”

Among the more unusual reports are claims of squirrels “staging coordinated branch takeovers,” interrupting guided walks, and even attempting to “escort” visitors out of certain areas of the park.

There are also suggestions that certain trees near the mansion have become “high-activity zones,” with officials considering the introduction of designated “quiet branches” if the behaviour continues.

Reaction from locals has been mixed. While some have welcomed the light-hearted attempt to address the issue, others remain unconvinced. One resident said: “They’ve always been cheeky, but this sounds like they’ve taken it to another level. Thankfully they are not as bad as those ones in Winton.”

Despite the scepticism, those behind the proposal insist the policy is being taken seriously – at least in spirit – as part of efforts to keep Buile Hill Park enjoyable for everyone.

As for the squirrels, there has been no official comment.