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
It’s great to be involved
We are very fortunate to have such dedicated volunteers who valiantly give of their time and efforts. With this in mind we thought you would like to take the opportunity to read four volunteers stories which are about the protection of red squirrels. They are all encouraging and inspiring, so if you have a moment of peace and quiet, do take the time to choose your story and enjoy the read.
Please note that once on the volunteers page you may need to scroll down to “Meet some of our Volunteers”
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.
