…through competition for resources. Most worryingly they could also potentially bring the deadly squirrelpox virus, which isn’t currently present in Aberdeenshire, with them. This virus doesn’t harm grey squirrels but it is deadly for reds. It would be devastating for Scotland’s squirrels if squirrelpox is allowed to spread into the north of the country. “There are a number of ways… […]
…and Lochearn will also be monitored. In the south of Scotland the project will maintain a co-ordinating overview of grey squirrel control efforts by land managers and volunteers within the priority areas for red squirrel conservation (PARCs). Our Grey Squirrel Control Officers will focus on the Upper Tweed, the Nithsdale and the Annandale PARCs. Existing volunteer groups which are not… […]
…Community Engagement Officer dedicated to protecting key red squirrel populations with the help of landowners and volunteers Campaigns to spread the word about the lives of red squirrels, the problems that they face and the wider appreciation of Scotland’s wildlife and work to protect it. Donations to the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels project are processed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust…. […]
…the same as the default (widescreen) PowerPoint. Videos should ideally be mp4 files but other formats may be acceptable – contact us for advice. Should I introduce myself at the beginning of my talk? Yes please! Each session will have a brief introduction, but individual talks will run consecutively so let the audience know who you are at the beginning… […]
…threaten their survival. These grey squirrels not only out-compete reds, some also carry the deadly squirrelpox virus. If their spread was allowed to continue, Scotland’s red squirrel stronghold in the southern Highlands would be at serious risk. The aim in this region is containment of the grey squirrel population to prevent further inroads being made on Scotland’s core red squirrel… […]
…the challenges of the pandemic, it has been decided that the Spring Survey will not be returning in 2021 due to the uncertainty of ongoing restrictions. With an incomplete dataset from this year’s survey, an annual Spring Survey Report for 2020 will not be produced, however we will aim to make use of returned samples where possible. Please see the… […]
…helped establish 17 dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer Local Network Groups across the region, providing them with the training and support they need to control grey squirrels and monitor, promote and protect red squirrels where they live. The majority of these groups now work independently from SSRS, although we continue to support these efforts via our Community Hub and necessary professional… […]
2020 was a year of change for many, and for Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels, we were fortunate enough to welcome in new members of the team while overcoming the challenges of covid-19. Having worked from home since starting their roles, we wanted to take the opportunity to bring forward the newest faces of SSRS from behind their computer screens… […]
…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… […]
… Landowners Landowners in certain areas can control grey squirrels under Forestry Grant Scheme funding, or join the project’s trap-loan scheme. Woodland owners, meanwhile, can adjust the management of their woods to benefit red squirrels. Please contact your local SSRS or Scottish Forestry staff for more information. Area Contact Susie McNaughton Conservation Officer smcnaughton@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk Peter Harrison Conservation Officer pharrison@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk… […]
