Busy breeding

…their branch, test their balance, and begin to investigate the world. Around now they also start trying solid food, the first step to becoming fully weaned by 10 weeks. Kits are initially darker than adults but by twelve weeks their coat colour is approaching the adult shade. Littermates tend to stick together and are likely to still be occupying the… […]

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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 gro ups have been invaluable in collective conservation efforts to date in South Scotland and are led by… […]

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Welcoming volunteers back into the field this Volunteers’ Week

…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… […]

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A lucky escape!

Original Author: Steve Willis   Sometimes trail cameras pick up some pretty unusual animal behaviour…   The SSRS team use trail cameras for much of our survey work. As these amazing devices have come down in price their popularity has risen and risen. And for good reason too – they are unobtrusive ways to observe your local wildlife. Even setting… […]

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All things invasive with the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative

…produces 20-30,000 seeds per flower head They are successful dispersers e.g. Himalayan balsam has exploding seed pods that spread its seed several metres, and a female mink can travel 80km in search of a breeding territory In addition, invasive plants often readily thrive on disturbed soils and making them very opportunistic and able to rapidly colonise a new area. They… […]

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News: Get squirrel spotting during the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey next week!

…like those facing the nation in recent weeks, many find peace by connecting with their local wildlife and greenspaces. As we return to our normal routines and take time to reflect, the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey encourages members of the public to further explore those nature connections and get involved directly with conservation efforts happening on the ground. Following up… […]

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News: The Great Scottish Squirrel Survey returns in an important year for squirrel sightings

…is working in priority areas across Scotland to protect red squirrels from the spread of the non-native grey squirrel. Gill Hatcher, SSRS Communications & Engagement Officer said: “We are asking everyone in Scotland to go out and enjoy the outdoors during Red Squirrel Week, look out for both red and grey squirrels and add your sightings to our online map… […]

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Great Scottish Squirrel Survey

…are a member of a community group, wildlife organisation or visitor attraction in Scotland you could help us spread the word or even host your own Great Scottish Squirrel Survey event. You can find out more in our campaign toolkit and contact us to discuss. Campaign toolkit Campaign poster Campaign leaflet Event poster templates Event social media template    … […]

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This Year's Sightings