…are asking people living within these areas to be extra vigilant. Squirrelpox is a virus carried by grey squirrels without causing them any harm. However, if spread to red squirrels the disease is deadly. Red squirrels develop wet pus-filled lesions on their faces, particularly around the eyes, nose and mouth, as well as on their paws and genitalia. They become… […]
…been conducting an annual survey in the areas where red squirrels are most under threat from non-native grey squirrels. The results provide us with a better understanding of where red and grey squirrels are on the map, and allow us to track changes in the populations of both species over time. This knowledge not only helps us measure the impact… […]
…among the canopy for the red squirrel (and pine martens!) to cross the road safely seems like a good one. But do our furry friends recognise and make use of them? A master’s student in 2008 investigated this on the west coast of Scotland on the Cowal peninsula. Using camera traps, hair-tube surveys and clay footprint pads he recorded the… […]
…which never materialises. Red squirrels, meanwhile are haring around, eating what they can, burying nuts, and scurrying in the direction of their dreys. Contrary to popular belief, squirrels do not hibernate. However they do spent less time in search of food, and more time sleeping. To provide warmth and protection from the elements during the coldest months, squirrels build winter… […]
…over West Dunbartonshire 5 times. Green Aspirations is a place where city kids of all ages can get out of the city and into the forest to play and re-connect with nature. The school pupils I worked with there were all spending the summer working towards their John Muir Awards, learning about the outdoors and bush craft skills at Green… […]
…American grey squirrels and much more elusive, red squirrels spend most of their time in the tree canopy. Spring time, before the leaves fully open and shield them from our gaze, can be a marvellous time for spotting squirrels. Squirrels are super active at this time with the joys of spring. Food reserves from winter are low and energy demands… […]
…tells me they have seen a red squirrel for the first time in many years. To see these lovely little animals holding their own in the face of the problems caused by their grey American cousins is pleasing, and to know that I’ve played a very small part in the effort to protect them is extremely satisfying. Andrew Vickery, Scottish… […]
…occupancy has remained stable at 52%. What is certain is that red squirrel populations would not be in nearly such good shape without the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels project – and the help of its partners, supporters and volunteers. The Scottish Wildlife Trust is committed to delivering this project in the long-term and it’s crucial that we don’t lose momentum…. […]
…the journal Proceedings of The Royal Society – B confirms that Scotland’s recovering pine martens are indeed having such a positive effect on the local red squirrel populations. This research clearly shows that in the parts of Scotland where pine martens exist alongside red and grey squirrels, there is a trend of decline in grey squirrels and increase in red… […]
