Red Squirrel Awareness Week

Red squirrels were immortalised by Beatrix Potter’s famous Squirrel Nutkin at the turn of the
nineteenth century. But since the introduction of the grey squirrel in 1876, our native red
squirrels are in decline and now only reside in pockets of the UK, with the majority being in
Scotland. Grey squirrels outcompete red squirrels for food and resources and carry the
squirrelpox virus, which is harmless to grey squirrels but invariably fatal to red squirrels.
For many people across the UK, opportunities to see red squirrels are rare. This precious
species needs your help to survive! Red Squirrel Awareness Week takes place annually.
You can get involved and make a difference this autumn from 24-30 September. There are
many activities running in our project areas throughout the week; from red squirrel safaris in
Northern Ireland and Ainsdale to craft making activities on Anglesey. It you live north of the
border, that’s no problem! Our friends at Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels are also running
numerous events for you to get involved in. This is your chance to see these amazing
creatures at close quarters! If you don’t live in a red squirrel area you can still adopt a red
squirrel – just think, your own personal Nutkin! Alternatively, why not make squirrel felt
masks with your children or friends and put your selfies on social media. At the most basic
level, simply discussing red squirrels with friends, colleagues and family to help raise
awareness of why these beautiful creatures are in decline.
Do you have some free time and wish to make a difference? Would you like to monitor red
and grey squirrel populations, help at a community event, undertake grey squirrel control or
radio tracking? Now could be the perfect time to get outdoors and volunteer with one of our
projects supporting red squirrel conservation. Our projects are always looking for additional
help and full training and support will be given in your area of preference.