An update on the Heathhall squirrelpox outbreak

…infected red squirrels that were originally spotted have died. Squirrelpox is a particularly aggressive virus in red squirrels, and is normally fatal within two weeks. Although very sad for the individual animals, we are hopeful that no new sightings of sick red squirrels means that the outbreak has passed. No grey squirrels were captured on site during our period of… […]

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An Autumn Overview of Tree ID

…red squirrels.   Which tree species create a good habitat for red squirrels? A great habitat for red squirrels is one with a healthy food supply. A varied mix of cone, fruit, seed and nut-producing tree species ensures that squirrels have plenty of natural resources throughout the year. In autumn, they can often be found ‘caching’ their foraged food in… […]

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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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Coronavirus: Temporary suspension of SSRS non-essential volunteer work

…issuing new guidance with immediate effect.   Grey squirrel control volunteers (including both trap-hosts and dispatchers) Registered Scottish Wildlife Trust volunteers undertaking grey squirrel control are able to continue with this essential work, provided that existing guidance (issued on 11/06/2020) is adhered to and a Covid-19 Risk Assessment has been completed and reviewed. The Covid-19 Risk Assessment can be accessed… […]

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How can mathematical modelling help save red squirrels in Scotland?

…of grey squirrel control operations, the likely spread of grey squirrels beyond the Highland Boundary Line and the impacts of forest management scenarios on red squirrel survival in designated ‘stronghold’ sites. A red squirrel infected with squirrelpox. Squirrelpox is carried by grey squirrels without causing them any harm. Red squirrels do not typically have immunity and the disease will be… […]

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Red Squirrel Rambles

…Hazlehead Park, Aberdeen | North East Scotland Take a stroll through formal gardens, woodland and nature trails on the lookout for signs of squirrels.   Duration: 50 Minutes Facilities: Parking, Public Toilets Public Transport Available Nearby: Yes Difficulty: Easy Wilderness Ranking: 1/3   Atholl Estates’ Glen Tilt, Blair Atholl | Tayside Explore historic woodland on the beautiful at Atholl Estates’… […]

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Southern Uplands Partnership Guest Blog: Funding Success for Red Squirrel Recovery Network

…over £250,000 are assessed in two rounds. Red Squirrel recovery Network has initially been granted round one development funding of £158,600 by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, allowing it to progress with its plans. Detailed proposals are then considered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund at second round, where a final decision is made on the full funding award. As… […]

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This Year's Sightings