Ensuring a Future for Red Squirrels
RED SQUIRRELS ARE HEADING FOR EXTINCTION
Red Squirrels are the UK’s only native squirrel and have lived here longer than humans
TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE THEM
KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH
Annual Photographic Competition 2021
Red Squirrels Through the Seasons
This year we are delighted to be working with the Royal Photographic Society Nature Group. As with last year, an Overall Winner will be selected from the four winners of the Open categories (‘Spring’, ‘Summer’, ‘Autumn’ and ‘Winter’) and we have added another category for children aged 14 and under – we’re looking forward to receiving your images and having the next generation getting involved.
What matters to us
Fewer than 287,000 red squirrels remain in the UK
Protecting our red squirrels
Without conservation management, red squirrels will be extinct in England in approximately 10 years and the rest of the UK will follow.
Securing their environment
The broadleaf woodlands of the UK, the original habitat of the red squirrel, are being devastated by grey squirrels. Greys strip bark from tree trunks and branches making them susceptible to tree pests and diseases and, in severe cases, killing the trees.
Funding research
RSST is working with the UK Squirrel Accord to bring an effective and affordable grey squirrel fertility control system to the woodlands of the British Isles.
Why red squirrels are under threat
The red squirrel population has been decimated following the introduction of grey squirrels which have spread relentlessly across the British Isles, monopolising food supplies and spreading disease.
RSST achievements
The last few years have seen significant progress, from the establishment of the UK Squirrel Accord and research into an oral contraception for grey squirrels to leading and informing public debate.
Woodland damage
Grey squirrels strip bark from the trunks and branches of young trees. Severe damage can kill the tree while milder cases involve bad scarring which is an entry point for other tree pests and disease.
Ways you can help
Make a donation
Every donation you give helps to ensure that our red squirrels survive and thrive.
Legacies
In addition to regular donations, legacies are vital as they enable us to expand the scope of our activities.
