Coronavirus: all SSRS outdoor volunteer work suspended

  Following the latest government guidelines, it has been agreed between Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels and the Scottish Wildlife Trust that all red squirrel outdoor volunteer work will be temporarily suspended with immediate effect.   This means that all registered Scottish Wildlife Trust volunteers carrying out grey squirrel control and/or survey work on behalf of Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels should… […]

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News: ‘Booster’ project will protect Scotland’s red squirrels for another two years

…red squirrel populations across most of England, Wales and Scotland’s Central Belt. Grey squirrels can also carry squirrelpox, a virus that doesn’t harm them but is deadly to reds. One of the project’s key aims is to build a network of local volunteers in priority areas across the south of Scotland, where healthy red squirrel populations are surrounded by greys… […]

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To feed or not to feed?

…disease. Suppliers Most suitable foods are available from online suppliers, garden centres, farm suppliers, supermarkets and health food shops. Pet food shops may also supply mixtures containing some or all of the recommended foods, sold for pets such as chipmunks. If you know of anyone else feeding squirrels, please pass on this information, or ask them to contact their local… […]

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Join the Hub

…to protect local red squirrel populations. Registered users can keep track of their squirrel sightings, and join a local red squirrel network to connect with others in your area. Once you have become a Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels volunteer you’ll also be able to use the Hub to access training resources and materials and submit and view your data online…. […]

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Community action in Galloway

…our understanding of how red squirrels behave Conservation in action We hold a stock of traps and four group members are trained and registered with Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels for grey control operations. Our experience so far suggests that sightings can sometimes lead to successful grey control, although trapping is often time-consuming and unsuccessful in our present situation. Shooting works… […]

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

…via social media. Additional funding has been obtained via substantial grants from the local council and via a windfarm grant scheme. The grants and membership fees have been used for the purchasing of further equipment and additional group running costs. Events: Our aims are also being achieved through our successful attendance at many local events such as the late Queen… […]

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

…Scotland for Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels said: “Grey squirrels moving north from Angus into Aberdeenshire are a serious threat to local red squirrels, as well as the core Scottish population in the Highlands. The recent reports from the Mearns are worrying and we need help to stop the spread of grey squirrels in the area. “Grey squirrels threaten red squirrels… […]

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Reviewing the Scottish Strategy for Red Squirrel Conservation

…new ambitious 50-year vision for the recovery of red squirrels throughout Scotland. Stay tuned for further updates as the group continues this vital and important work! Robyn Stewart Species and Habitats Officer & Red Squirrel Species Lead RSPB Scotland Members of the Scottish Squirrel Group meet in February 2024 to discuss next steps for the Strategy © Robyn Stewart  … […]

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Red squirrels and biosecurity

…animal. Specific instructions for the use of Virkon ®S by volunteers in the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels annual Spring Survey are available to review online within the community hub resources. Please note that Virkon ®S is not suitable for use indoors, and is not safe for humans. It is classified as an irritant and should always be handled following the… […]

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Knowledge Fair – celebrating five years of community action

…Pine martens and squirrels – Dr Emma Sheehy, Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels Session Q&A     SATURDAY 4 DECEMBER   Session 1: Celebrating Community Action Grey squirrel control and the SSRS trap loan scheme – James Kennedy, SSRS Grey Squirrel Officer Woodland management and the Forestry Grant Scheme – Colin Edwards, Scottish Forestry Landowner Story: Argaty Red Kites – Mary-Anne… […]

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This Year's Sightings