2017 squirrel survey reveals Scotland’s red squirrels are holding on strong

…the spread of non-native grey squirrels. Grey squirrels, which were introduced to Britain from North America in the 19th Century, out-compete red squirrels for resources, and can also carry squirrelpox, a virus that doesn’t harm them but is deadly to reds. The 2017 survey results show that red squirrel populations have remained stable in the past year, a sign that… […]

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Reports of suspected squirrelpox near Cardrona

…area to please remove wildlife feeders from your gardens in order to avoid spreading the disease to healthy red squirrels visiting the feeders. Squirrelpox is a virus carried by grey squirrels without causing them any harm. However, if spread to red squirrels the disease is deadly. Feeding stations can encourage both species to come into close contact and increase the… […]

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Coronavirus: all SSRS outdoor volunteer work suspended

…as soon as possible (with a 10 figure grid reference for each trap or a detailed location description). Where traps are currently set, our staff will endeavour to secure them shut if at all possible. This was not an easy decision to make. Together we have made great strides in recent years, and we are fully aware that this could… […]

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Join the Hub

to protect local red squirrel populations. Registered users can keep track of their squirrel sightings, and join a local red squirrel network to connect with others in your area. Once you have become a Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels volunteer you’ll also be able to use the Hub to access training resources and materials and submit and view your data online…. […]

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Cycling for Squirrels

…motivating to have a purpose to the hard work and sore legs (Peat Inn is 200 metres above sea level – ooyah!) and if any SSRS supporters would like to push me on I have started a Just Giving page at https://www.justgiving.com/Kensredsquirrelcycle where you can donate. If you do, I’ll dedicate a mile to you on my way to Edinburgh…. […]

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Spotting squirrelpox: new sightings across Dumfries and Galloway

…between Palnackie and Carsethorn back in May. Squirrelpox is a fatal disease which red squirrels have no immunity against. The symptoms are very distinctive, with lesions and sores forming around the squirrel’s face preventing them from being able to eat and drink as well as limiting their mobility. Although squirrelpox is commonly spread by grey squirrels that carry the disease… […]

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Where to See Them

…meaning you stand a better chance of seeing them here than almost anywhere else in the country. The map highlights just some of the locations where you can see red squirrels. If you are lucky enough to spot one, please remember to submit a squirrel sighting following your visit – it can make a big difference! Report a Squirrel Sighting… […]

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The Muirhead Red Squirrel Sanctuary, Dundee

…Officer for Tayside, Ken Neil, talks about the importance of the Muirhead Red Squirrel Sanctuary, on the outskirts of Dundee. Working closely with volunteers and neighbours, they protect the red squirrel by maintaining a relatively secure breeding area, providing sanctuary from predating domestic pets and controlling other animal and environmental threats where possible. Click here to visit their website.  … […]

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Contact Us

…someone on the phone, please call the Scottish Wildlife Trust reception desk on 0131 312 7765. Alternatively, you can email us at squirrels@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk. If your query is about an injured or abandoned red squirrel the best people to contact is the Scottish SPCA on 0300 099 9999. Join our mailing list to receive regular project updates and news by email…. […]

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Gardening for red squirrels

…plastic turf? Then you’ll understand that it’s never been more important to create safe havens for wildlife in our urban and suburban environments. Fortunately, while some people continue to push out nature in favour of cars and convenience, others are making space in their lives for a bit of wildness. Thanks to increased awareness in recent years we’re leaving gaps… […]

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This Year's Sightings