Help the Strath’s red squirrels
Strath residents are being urged to take part in the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey, which begins on Monday and runs until September 29.
The group Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels is encouraging locals to spend some time exploring the outdoors and reporting any sightings of red or grey squirrels to the website www.scottishsquirrels.org. uk
Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels is a partnership project led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust that is working to protect red squirrels where they are most under threat from the spread of the non-native greys.
Dr Mel Tonkin, SSRS project manager said:“We monitor squirrel populations throughout the year, and in 2018 we received an incredible 8,400 squirrel sightings from members of the public.
“This year, thanks to support from National Lottery players, we’re trying something a bit different.
“By going out and looking for squirrels during the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey people can help us create a more detailed snapshot of the current situation on the ground. The more information we receive, the better.”
Gordon Buchanan, wildlife filmmaker and Scottish Wildlife Trust ambassador added:“The red squirrel is an iconic Scottish species.
“Thanks to conservation efforts, their populations are beginning to stabilise, but their future is still under threat. Taking part in the Great Scottish Squirrel Survey is a really simple way you can help.”
Find out more at www. scottishsquirrels.org.uk