Following last month’s suspension of all SSRS outdoor volunteer work in light of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, the decision has been made to cancel the project’s annual survey which takes place in Spring. After careful consideration, it has been decided that the 2020 annual Spring Survey will not continue after lockdown restrictions are […]
Category: Blog
Red squirrels and biosecurity
Professor Ronald J Roberts, Chairman of Bradan Biosecurity, discusses the importance of strong biosecurity protocols and how they can protect Scotland’s red squirrels from the threat of squirrelpox. He is a veterinary surgeon who has personally been involved in the development and testing of Virkon ®S, a broad-spectrum disinfectant, for the last 20 years. […]
Suspected squirrelpox cases on the Solway Coast
Two suspected cases of squirrelpox are being investigated in the Auchencairn and Sandyhills regions of the Solway Coast in Dumfries and Galloway. Following the retrieval of a sick red squirrel believed to be suffering from squirrelpox by the SSPCA from Auchencairn last week and the sighting of another red squirrel showing squirrelpox symptoms […]
Remembering Brian Fishwick
The Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrel (SSRS) team are very saddened by the recent passing of Brian Fishwick, SSRS volunteer and founding member of the Glenkens Red Squirrel Group. Described as a ‘leading light’ by his peers, Brian’s enthusiasm and commitment to the cause has been an inspiration to many and instrumental in the ongoing protection […]
Building a Volunteer Network
Network groups across South Scotland priority areas are ensuring the long-term survival of native red squirrels through community action. In our project’s priority areas, some of these groups are already beginning to see red squirrel populations bounce back. Red squirrel groups have been invaluable in collective conservation efforts to date in South Scotland and are led by […]
Commendation for collaborative conservation efforts in Aberdeen
Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels have been working in partnership with Aberdeen City Council to develop strategies for protecting Scotland’s native red squirrels in the North East since the project first began. At the ALGE (Association of Local Government Ecologists) awards in December, this work was acknowledged with a special commendation certificate. Celebrating ALGE’s 25th […]
Taking an evidence based approach to practical action
Dr Jenny Bryce, Scottish Natural Heritage Wildlife Ecologist, discusses how evidence is shaping conservation strategy; reflecting on invasives insights upon the publication of a paper co-written by Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels’ Dr Mel Tonkin. In July 2017 Mel Tonkin, SSRS Project Manager, presented a paper at the IUCN Island Invasives conference held in […]
An Autumn Overview of Tree ID
The seasons have changed and our walkways are now covered with leaves of orange, yellow, red and brown. Autumn is one of the best times to get playful with tree identification while there is so much to pick up and investigate. What colours and shapes can you see? Are there fruits and nuts on the […]
We’re helping it happen
Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels has won a Helping It Happen award! It’s not every day you see a red squirrel in the centre of Edinburgh, not least one surrounded by twinkling lights, clinking glasses and the chatter of people in tuxedos and cocktail dresses. It was only a projection, but still the image represented […]
Looking for signs of squirrels this September
We want to help you get the most out of your Great Scottish Squirrel Survey week and give you the best opportunity possible to see our furry friends out in the wild. Our SSRS Conservation Officers from across the country have come up with a guide of subtle signs, memorable marks and helpful hints to assist you on your adventures over the next few days. […]