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Our native red squirrels are at risk of extinction with grey squirrels having driven them out of the majority of mainland England and parts of Scotland. The UK is now at a critical point in the recovery of the species.
The Red Squirrel Recovery Network project will work to ensure red squirrels have the best future possible by bringing together conservation partners and volunteer groups in parts of England and Scotland.
Led by Northumberland Wildlife Trust, the partnership team have planned activity programmes and developed a conservation plan for red squirrels during their 12-month development phase. They have also developed the methodology for large-scale grey squirrel fertility control.
The team collected data across the project areas on squirrel presence/absence, grey squirrel management activity and established the current pool of volunteers, as well as encouraging new volunteers to join their efforts.
Using the information collated, the team will now work with volunteers and landowners to help safeguard and grow the remaining red squirrel population. They will also provide opportunities for local groups to secure small community grants to undertake their own red squirrel conservation projects, such as engagement activities and squirrel themed events.
Find out more about the Red Squirrel Recovery Network.
