Squirrelpox: Staying ahead of the spread

…in the nearby landscape to be at risk from disease. If the virus continues to spread through the grey squirrel population of the Lowlands however, it will eventually arrive in areas where red squirrels thrive. By testing we can forewarn people living in those areas, which may give them time to organise some protection for local red squirrels.   Landowners,… […]

Read More…

News: Help stop the spread of grey squirrels in the Mearns

…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… […]

Read More…

Hawick, Selkirk and Denholm Red Squirrel Network – One Year Later

…other develop. Our Aims: To protect, identify and strengthen red squirrel populations in our area. Encourage the expansion of current red squirrel populations in our area. Support neighbouring red squirrel groups to establish themselves where possible. Promote better understanding and support for red squirrels in the Borders generally by delivering presentations and through attendance at local events etc. Funding: Obtaining… […]

Read More…

News: Take a red squirrel ramble with new digital walking routes

…from the threat of invasive non-native grey squirrels. Project Manager Dr. Mel Tonkin said: “The walking trails are not only fantastic places to catch sight of a red squirrel in action, they are also located in the key project areas where we are working to ensure the long-term protection of this iconic Scottish species. “The trails are designed to encourage… […]

Read More…

Argyll, Trossachs & Stirling

…local SSRS staff for more information.   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 [Vacant] Conservation Officer squirrels@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk… […]

Read More…

Great Scottish Squirrel Survey

…the situation. What makes the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey so great is that anyone can take part from anywhere in Scotland. Areas of known squirrel territory are equally important as those where few squirrels have been seen before. You can view all our previous sightings records here. Last year over 650 people reported 790 squirrel sightings in just one week…. […]

Read More…

Vital protections for red squirrels at risk

…Countryside Act 1981. The Minister for Environment, Biodiversity and Land Reform (Mairi McAllan) gave this response: S6W-01445 Mairi McAllan : “The Scottish Government is committed to enhancing biodiversity and to protecting vulnerable species in Scotland. Following the conclusion of the seventh Quinquennial Review the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) will submit recommendations for potential changes to the animals and plants… […]

Read More…

This Year's Sightings