Community action in Galloway

one autumn squirrelpox struck, and they were all gone in a few weeks. So we had to move, didn’t we… Before coming to Galloway, I was on the Biology staff at Newcastle University, where I lectured for years on conservation biology, including the devastating worldwide effects of invasive species introductions. It was natural, therefore, for me to work for more… […]

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HRH The Prince of Wales gives special thanks to volunteers on Red Squirrel Appreciation Day

  Today marks Red Squirrel Appreciation Day, a time to celebrate one of our most treasured native species and those that have been working selflessly to protect them. Our conservation efforts would not be possible without the tremendous help of our enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers, and today our gratitude is echoed in an open letter from HRH The Prince of… […]

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New threat to Perthshire’s red squirrels as greys reappear in Aberfeldy

…Aberfeldy area to keep your eyes peeled for grey squirrels and report any sightings direct to our project website, scottishsquirrels.org.uk.” Grey squirrels were introduced to Scotland’s Central Belt in Victorian times and have since spread across the country, in many places completely replacing the native red squirrel population. At present the only way to prevent this spread is through targeted… […]

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An Introduction to Squirrels in Scotland

on woodland habitat, and where this is altered, due to development, or change in land use, this can lead to isolated populations of red squirrels, making it harder for them to survive. Not only do red squirrels serve as the inspiration for many of our favourite childhood stories, they also play a vital role within the ecosystem. Red squirrels play… […]

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News: Public citizen science effort creates snapshot of squirrel distributions across Scotland.

…can make a big difference to our efforts.” Sightings can be reported year-round at scottishsquirrels.org.uk/squirrel-sightings. Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels is a partnership project led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and supported by the Scottish Government and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players, along with other partners. For further information please contact Nicole Still, nstill@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk, 07423 028689… […]

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New faces and farewells

…Scotland. We wish them both well in their new ventures and thank them for all their hard work on behalf of red squirrel conservation in Scotland. We will miss Ryan’s dry humour and Lucy’s calm approach to absolutely everything. If you would like to work with us at Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels follow the links for more information: https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/job/conservation-and-control-officer-stirlingshire-argyll-trossachs/ https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/job/project-officer-south-east-scotland-saving-scotlands-red-squirrels/… […]

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Vacancies: work with us in 2020

…and national media. APPLY NOW   Project Administrator Location: Leith Region: Nationwide Contract: Fixed term for 2 years Closing date: 12 noon, Monday 13 January A vacancy has arisen for a highly organised and efficient Administrator to work alongside project staff in delivering and developing the project’s Community Engagement and Communications plan. The post holder will play a key role… […]

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Coronavirus: Phased restart of SSRS outdoor volunteer work

…will need to be taken. Before resuming activities, please contact your local Conservation Officer to discuss news ways of working and review our new risk assessment for outdoor volunteers. Surveying & monitoring The annual SSRS Spring Survey remains cancelled until its return in spring 2021, however we aim to restart supplementary squirrel monitoring activities once SSRS offices reopen. This will… […]

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SNOW DAY!

to make my own evidence for squirrel presence at my home. I made a 1.5 metre snow squirrel, which you can see here. It only took me 45 minutes and only required snow, gloves, and a stick to hold the three main body parts together in the slanting position. I may be suffering from a little bit of cabin-fever, but… […]

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All things invasive with the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative

…adapted to their new environment, growing faster and out-competing our native species for space and food/nutrients. E.g. invasive plants out-compete our native wildflowers Predation; a predatory invasive species can have a significant effect on reducing the population of a native species. E.g. the significant impact on water voles by American mink predation Hybridisation; invasive species can interbreed with native species,… […]

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This Year's Sightings