…squirrels – which account for around 75% of the total UK population. Red squirrels are a protected species, but for many years have experienced declines due to the invasive non-native grey squirrel introduced to Britain from North America in Victorian times. Grey squirrels out-compete reds for food and living space and have rapidly replaced native red squirrel populations across most… […]
Read More…
…red and grey squirrels in the event of a disease outbreak. We recommend an anti-viral solution such as Virkon-S. Squirrel sightings also have an important role to play in monitoring distribution changes over time and assessing areas where both red and grey squirrels come into close proximity. Sightings of both species can be reported through our website at https://scottishsquirrels.org.uk/squirrel-sightings/. And… […]
Read More…
…in the event that planning or housing developments are proposed near a possible red squirrel habitat. NatureScot is the licensing authority for removal/disturbance of protected species’ places of refuge in a development situation. They have created a comprehensive document, ‘guidance on planning and protected animals’ with specific information and advice regarding red squirrels. Further advice and links can be found… […]
Read More…
…busily gather food, preparing themselves for the colder months ahead. By taking part you’ll be doing a small act to help protect one of Scotland’s most iconic yet threatened species, while joining in a mass citizen science event. When will we find out the results? Each sighting we receive is verified by a member of our team before being added… […]
Read More…
…outdoors. Both species seen throughout the week were reported to scottishsquirrels.org.uk for inclusion in a national database that directly influences conservation action. A total of 548 grey squirrel and 2612 red squirrel sightings were reported to the project during the survey, almost eight times as many sightings as would be reported in a typical week and almost four times the… […]
Read More…
…its presence, the benchmark. As you will all know so well, these charming and intelligent creatures never fail to delight. I take enormous pleasure in having them around – and in! – the house when I am at home in Scotland. They are such inquisitive and delightful characters; they have even been known to hunt down a few of their… […]
Read More…
…Tetrad Data Sheets, including your volunteer hours and collected stickies, posting these in the addressed pre-paid envelope provided as usual. If you have been storing bait, this can be donated to a nearby Volunteer Group or you are welcome to use this in your own garden. South East Scotland Guidance and instructions for remaining Spring Survey equipment and supplies will… […]
Read More…
…in the early 1990s, and I was riding my bike along the rutted, potholed track that serves as the main road through our family farm. Stopping for a drink of water I looked across the adjacent field when an unexpected movement caught my eye. Standing atop a nearby gatepost was a red squirrel. Tail twitching, eyes unblinking it stared at… […]
Read More…
