The Forestry Commission in Scotland will set up and manage 18 stronghold sites that will help safeguard the country’s surviving red squirrel population.
Welcoming the announcement, Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said, “Red squirrels are an important and high-profile part of Scotland’s biodiversity so it is crucial that we do what we can to safeguard their long-term survival. It is not enough to simply control grey squirrels. We also need to ensure that we protect and manage those habitats that allow red squirrels to thrive but which are unappealing for greys.”
“The backing and support of landowners means that we can now take forward plans that will ensure the success of this long term conservation opportunity.”
The strongholds will supplement and complement work to control the spread of greys and the squirrel pox virus they carry, and will be developed in association with landowners and managers, Scottish Natural Heritage and other parts of the Scottish Government.
Ron McDonald, Head of Policy and Advice for SNH said, “Grey squirrels have already displaced red squirrels from most of England and Wales, as well as Scotland’s central belt. Fortunately, much of the north of Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway are still grey-free. But with sightings of greys becoming more frequent even in some of these areas, it’s essential that we act quickly to protect red squirrels and prevent the greys’ further migration.”
Each site is at least 2000 hectares in size and will be managed as refuges for red squirrels, focusing on ensuring food supplies for reds (from cone bearing conifers) and restricting food sources preferred by greys (large seeded broadleaves).
The proposed sites are: Ordiequish/Whiteash/Ben Aigan in Moray, Eredine, Culbin Forest, Inverliever, Kilmichael, Glentochty, Black Isle, South Rannoch, Glen Glass, Fleet Basin, Morangie Forest, Daviot Loch Moy, Inshriach and Glenfeshie, Leanachan, Balmoral to Inver, Eskdalemuir, Glenbranter, Abernethy, and Nethy Bridge.