…because they thrive in the new environment into which they’ve been introduced and, in doing so, impact on and disrupt the delicate balance of that natural ecosystem. Their impacts can be large and obvious, like the presence of a stand of Japanese knotweed, or subtle like the reduction in invertebrate biodiversity in a river when the banks are dominated by… […]
…in Scotland. Dr Mel Tonkin, Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels Project Manager said: “We’d like to thank everyone who took the time to report a squirrel sighting during the survey. It’s been inspiring to see more people than ever taking time to enjoy nature and on the look-out for squirrels.” “Reporting a squirrel sighting is a small act that helps to… […]
…will need to be taken. Before resuming activities, please contact your local Conservation Officer to discuss news ways of working and review our new risk assessment for outdoor volunteers. Surveying & monitoring The annual SSRS Spring Survey remains cancelled until its return in spring 2021, however we aim to restart supplementary squirrel monitoring activities once SSRS offices reopen. This will… […]
…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,… […]
…2021, we have recruited more than 50 local volunteers who carry out frequent intensive surveys of all squirrel suitable habitat in Aberde*]}*en city and its environs. Award winners – In November 2014, the project was joint winner (alongside our partners Aberde*]}*en City Council) in the coveted ‘Species Champion’ category at the Nature of Scotland Awards. The award recognised the project’s… […]
Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels is calling on the public to take part in the nationwide Great Scottish Squirrel Survey between 20-26 September (National Red Squirrel Week). Now in its third year, the survey is needed more than ever due to the impact of Covid-19. Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels (SSRS) is a partnership project led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, which… […]
…a recent report of a grey squirrel seen near Loch Katrine was worrying and surprising, as it has been a stronghold for red squirrels for many years, and is some distance from the nearest grey squirrel population. Swift action ensured that the squirrel was captured, and since then local people have kept a sharp eye out to make sure there… […]
…ensuring that this vital work is sustained long-term. Eileen Stuart, NatureScot Deputy Director of Nature and Climate Change, said: “The red squirrel is one of our most iconic species, and it’s heartening to reflect on the progress that has been made through this project to protect and expand populations. It is particularly encouraging to see the number of individuals, communities… […]
SSRS Knowledge Fair: celebrating five years of developing community action 3-4 December 2021 As our ‘Developing Community Action’ phase comes to an end we will be celebrating all the project has achieved alongside our partners, volunteers, landowners and supporters. This virtual Knowledge Fair will also provide an opportunity to learn more about red squirrel conservation work happening across Scotland… […]
