Red Squirrels

In Scotland

Discover Scotland's Charming Red Squirrels: Habitat, Diet and More

Red squirrels are one of Scotland's most iconic and beloved species. These beautiful creatures are known for their distinctive russet coat and tufted ears, and can be found throughout much of Scotland's woodlands and forests.

Despite being a common sight in the past, red squirrel populations have been in decline due to habitat loss and competition from non-native grey squirrels. However, conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore these beloved animals.

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Red Squirrel in a tree

Conservation Efforts to Protect Red Squirrels in Scotland

Red squirrel conservation efforts are currently underway across Scotland to help protect and restore these beloved animals. The main focus of these efforts is to control and reduce grey squirrel populations, and prevent the spread of squirrel pox. This is achieved through a combination of trapping and shooting, as well as the use of fertility control methods to prevent grey squirrels from breeding.

In addition to controlling grey squirrel populations, there are a number of other conservation efforts in place to help protect red squirrels in Scotland. These include the creation of red squirrel reserves, the restoration of native woodlands, and public education campaigns to raise awareness of the importance of red squirrel conservation.

History and Distribution of Red Squirrels in Scotland

Red squirrels are native to Scotland, and have been present in the country since the end of the last Ice Age. They were once a common sight throughout the country, and were particularly abundant in the woodlands of the Highlands and Islands.

However, the introduction of non-native grey squirrels from North America in the late 19th century has had a significant impact on red squirrel populations. Grey squirrels carry a virus called squirrelpox, which is fatal to red squirrels but does not harm grey squirrels. As a result, red squirrels have been pushed out of many areas of Scotland by the invasive grey squirrel.

A Red Squirrel in a field eating

Red Squirrel Habits and Behaviours

Red squirrels are active during the day, and spend much of their time foraging for food. They feed on a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, and fungi. During the winter, they store food in caches in preparation for leaner times. Red squirrels are also known for their acrobatic abilities, and are able to leap from tree to tree with ease.

Red squirrels are solitary creatures, and tend to be territorial. Males will defend their territories against other males, and will mate with several females during the breeding season. Females give birth to litters of between 3 and 7 young, which are born hairless and blind and rely on their mother's milk for the first 8-10 weeks of their lives.

Where to See Red Squirrels in Scotland

Red squirrels can be found throughout much of Scotland, particularly in the woodlands of the Highlands and Islands. They can also be seen in other parts of the country, including in parks and gardens. Some of the best places to see red squirrels in Scotland include the Cairngorms National Park, the Isle of Arran, and the Scottish Wildlife Trust's Loch Garten Osprey Centre.

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