CELEBRATING ALL THINGS RED
One man’s love for an endearing mammal.
The Red Squirrel: A Future in the Forest By Neil McIntyre and Polly Pullar Scotland The Big Picture £25
TThere are few more appealing pphotographic subjects than Britain’s nnative squirrel – and no landscape on EEarth like the Caledonian pine forests of thet Scottish Highlands. Together, species and setting are an irresistible combination and after almost 30 years of photographing both week in, week out, Neil McIntyre has captured them in all moods and seasons. The result is a beguiling book in which every page is worthy of framing. In anecdotes explaining how some of the pictures came about, Neil comes across as a photographer who often can’t believe his luck – though really his success is the product of vision and sheer perseverance. There are cameo appearances from other Highland specialities too, such as capercaillie, pine marten and crested tit, and Polly Pullar’s text provides a readable insight into the ecology of the squirrels and their home, and a timely reminder that neither should be taken for granted.
Amy-Jane Beer Wildlife writer