Coronavirus: all SSRS outdoor volunteer work suspended

…as soon as possible (with a 10 figure grid reference for each trap or a detailed location description). Where traps are currently set, our staff will endeavour to secure them shut if at all possible. This was not an easy decision to make. Together we have made great strides in recent years, and we are fully aware that this could… […]

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

…their old territories. The Argaty Red Kite project has also played an important role, installing red squirrel nest boxes and supporting our population monitoring work. The fact that Argaty now has a strong and secure enough red squirrel population to invest in a dedicated hide is hugely encouraging, and a perfect example of how red squirrel conservation benefits both people… […]

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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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An Autumn Overview of Tree ID

…of habitat the squirrel was spotted in. Having a basic knowledge of tree identification comes in helpful here and sharing this allows us to investigate which habitats squirrels appear to be thriving in. Spotting the difference between a coniferous and deciduous tree in autumn is simple. Deciduous trees with broad leaves, change colour and often lose their leaves at this… […]

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Red Squirrel Rambles

…us in the following ways: Facebook: Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels Twitter: @ScotSquirrels Email: squirrels@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk   Ramble Responsibly Know the code before you go, and visit the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for practical advice and guidance. Coronavirus update: please ensure you adhere to the latest guidelines issued by the Scottish Government, in regards to travel, leisure and socialising outdoors https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/.  … […]

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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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SNOW DAY!

…fox, field vole trails, pheasants, and a variety of crows. I was fortunate enough to even find the trail of an otter, bounding through the snow, in and out of the Endrick! Unfortunately, I didn’t find any squirrel trails or sign in the nearby woods. King of all he surveys! Image: Paul McDonald.   Without any squirrel sign, I decided… […]

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This Year's Sightings