Looking after red squirrels

Red squirrels at risk

It's not always easy being a red squirrel. During the last few hundred years red squirrel populations have fallen. This is largely because of habitat loss and fragmentation, and the introduction of non-native grey squirrels in the 19th century. Since then grey squirrels have overtaken red squirrels throughout much of southern England and Wales. They compete for the same food and habitat and can spread disease.

Why are red squirrels important?

While both species of squirrel have a similar role in the ecosystem in that they are small woodland mammals that spread the seeds of trees, red squirrels are a particularly important asset in the regeneration of pine woodlands. Reds are specially adapted to feed on the seeds in their pinecones, while greys tend to favour broadleaf woodland where many other animals can do the job of spreading the seeds, such as birds.

If red squirrels became extinct in the UK, it would not only have a negative impact on our pine woodland regeneration, but we would also lose one of our most iconic native mammals.

But thanks to the help of our experts, volunteers and your support, we've been able to look after red squirrels at the places we care for.

Keeping red squirrels healthy

Grey squirrels carry the squirrel pox virus and while they are mostly immune, reds have little or no immunity and can suffer badly when exposed. The virus is member of the Herpes complex and it may be that this virus is more likely to break out when a grey population reaches high densities. So a reduction in numbers may well reduce cross infection rates.

Formby's red squirrels

A previous outbreak of the virus at the Red Squirrel Reserve at Formby Point affected 70 per cent of the squirrels living there.

'Thankfully, the population has now recovered and there is also evidence that at least some of the red squirrels there have developed some immunity to the virus,' says David Bullock, the National Trust's former head of conservation.

'Our staff and volunteers, together with many people in local communities, keep a sharp eye out for grey squirrels that might be trying to enter the Red Squirrel Reserve.'