There have been a few changes to our SSRS scurry for 2026! We’re delighted that Jen Payne, who joined the team in 2023 as Monitoring and Control Officer for East Angus will be taking on the role of Conservation Lead for the Highland Line, overseeing a really key area for red squirrel conservation. Chloe Chappell is our new Monitoring and Control Officer (MCO) for East Angus, and is already a fantastic addition to the project. We asked both of them to tell us a bit more about how they got into conservation.
Jen – Conservation Lead, Highland Line
“I’m Jen, the Conservation Lead for the Highland line team in SSRS. After graduating late in life, I was looking for something practical that would get me out from behind a desk and learning new skills. I loved my role on the ground from the off and have been lucky to have been here as the programme has evolved rapidly, with so many positive developments across all the teams. The Highland Line team is quite different now from just 3 years ago and I am incredibly proud to be part of its leadership it as it continues to progress and make tangible differences to Scotland’s red squirrels, albeit mostly from behind a desk!”
Chloe – MCO East Angus
I have spent the last nine years studying and working in conservation with a focus on invasive species control since completing my MSc in global wildlife health and conservation. I previously worked on a species eradication project in Scotland, and I have had some other amazing wildlife opportunities including volunteering with trapping of Tasmanian devils to test for DFTD (Devil Facial Tumour Disease). I have always had a strong connection to nature, and this has shaped my career and personal values. I am particularly passionate about protecting native species not only for their vital role in biodiversity but also the benefits and joy they bring to us. I am looking forward to bringing my skills and knowledge to Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels and help conserve this iconic species.