News: Record participation in national squirrel survey

…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… […]

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How can mathematical modelling help save red squirrels in Scotland?

…previously occupied by grey squirrels.   A comparison of the red and grey squirrel presence after 24 simulated years for different levels of grey squirrel control in Dumfries & Galloway. Grey squirrel control was simulated in the model in the areas indicated by the black rectangles.   For more information on the modelling work and other strongholds in the Central… […]

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Red Squirrel Rambles

…the forests of Dumfries and Galloway in an interactive app that will guide you on your adventure. Explore with the opportunity of wild encounters, discover more about red squirrels, complete challenges and collect tokens as you go. And of course, if you see a squirrel while walking, we want to hear about it!   Download a Red Squirrel Ramble today… […]

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An Autumn Overview of Tree ID

…keep an eye out for any buds on trees – this could be a sign that a squirrel (or other animal) has beat you to the fruit first. Additional useful links If you just can’t learn enough about Britain’s native and non-native trees, you can find out more information by following the links below. Happy tree ID-ing everyone! https://forestryandland.gov.scot/learn/trees https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/a-z-of-british-trees/… […]

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Coronavirus: Temporary suspension of SSRS non-essential volunteer work

…through the Community Hub Grey Squirrel Control Group documents, or by contacting your local Community Engagement Officer or Conservation Officer. We ask those continuing with voluntary control work to keep abreast of any further changes in the Scottish Government’s coronavirus advice and please ensure compliance with coronavirus restrictions in your local authority area by visiting https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/.   Survey volunteers All… […]

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Argaty Red Kites celebrate their other star species with a new red squirrel hide

…the area’s red squirrel conservation journey. The Woodland Hide can host up to three people at one time and is custom-built for photography. © Argaty Red Kites   Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels has been monitoring squirrel populations in the area since 2012. At first, only grey squirrels were detected on the Argaty estate. Then, in 2013/14 the map changed from… […]

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Busy breeding

…Mothers in good body condition produce heavier kits, which are subsequently more likely to survive their first year. Gestation lasts 5-6 weeks, after which time around 3-4 kits are born, although litters of up to six are possible. The blind, hairless kits, weighing 10-15g, are entirely dependent on maternal care while they are in the nest and until they are… […]

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This Year's Sightings