…project’s spring surveys in both 2020 and 2021. These annual systematic surveys, which used baited squirrel-hair sampling boxes at over 200 specific locations, provided robust distribution data for both red and grey squirrels that was invaluable for comparing the fortunes of squirrels from year-to-year. Project Manager Dr Mel Tonkin said: “Without the spring survey data, we need the help of… […]
…on a record-breaking turnout in 2020, last year’s 2021 Great Scottish Squirrel Survey saw 1549 squirrel sightings reported in just one week by nearly 1100 people across Scotland. Sightings help project staff to create a picture of the situation on the ground, and directly contribute to red squirrel conservation action. Since the end of the project’s spring surveys in 2020,… […]
…Let’s make this year’s survey even greater! Report your sighting Kids worksheet Find out more Why do we need this data? SSRS has been collecting public squirrel sightings since 2010, last year we received a massive 10,484 sightings with the help of the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey, giving us our third highest recording year to date. The data… […]
…of bait out in the hope of a few squirrels or maybe even a marten. The very first thing to find the bait was a marten! Then by day there were heaps of squirrels. See this link for a cool video of what is known, technically speaking, as a scurry of squirrels. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rik6pGV0KlI All very nice, but imagine Gus’ surprise… […]
…December volunteer announcement, grey squirrel control volunteers can continue their work in the field We ask those looking to return to volunteering, to be proactive in monitoring changing Covid-19 guidelines in your local authority area, by regularly visiting https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/. Prior to commencing any new activities, a Covid-19 Risk Assessment will need to be reviewed. This can be accessed through… […]
…The first young, born in February will start to be weaned after 10-12 weeks in mid-April and make their first explorations out of the drey into the big bad world. Keep your eyes out for these cute little mini squirrels with bushy tails and visit our website to record your sightings of both red and grey squirrels and any breeding… […]
…the squirrels can sometimes spend a lot of time munching on their free food if nothing disturbs them. In fact, in one instance, it seemed like a red squirrel had a wee after-lunch nap on the box platform! Even with this method we tend to get hundreds of photos, sometimes thousands! I personally love conducting camera trapping; you never know… […]
…Do they hide away and hibernate? NO!!! This seems to be a widely held belief. Ground squirrels in other parts of the world do hibernate, but can only do so if they build up huge fat reserves. Tree squirrels (like red and grey squirrels) cannot afford to build up a lot of weight and still scamper about the canopy, so… […]
