Red Squirrel Awareness Week: Why It Matters — and How You Can Help

What Is Red Squirrel Awareness Week?

Red Squirrel Awareness Week is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a critical initiative that draws attention to the challenges faced by the red squirrel, a native species threatened by various factors in its natural habitat. The campaign takes place in early October. In 2025 it runs from 6 – 12 October, and organised by the UK Squirrel Accord in partnership with conservation bodies like Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels and others.

Every October, conservation groups across the UK come together for Red Squirrel Awareness Week — a dedicated time to raise the profile of the UK’s native red squirrel, highlight the threats it faces, celebrate successes, and encourage public involvement. For a company like ours — operating in Herefordshire and Worcestershire — supporting such environmental causes is part of our commitment to balanced, responsible wildlife management.

This week reminds us all of the need for conservation and the difference we can make for these adorable animals. In this blog post, we will delve into why Red Squirrel Awareness Week is so important and how you can be part of the solution.

The 2024 Great Scottish Squirrel Survey:

Key Data & Insights

The Great Scottish Squirrel Survey is a citizen science initiative held during Red Squirrel Awareness Week. It invites members of the public across Scotland to report sightings of red and grey squirrels over a defined week. These data help conservationists map distributions, detect changes, and target action.

Here are some of the key findings from 2024:

Metric	2024 Findings	Interpretation / Context
Number of reporters	1,802 people participated Scottish Wildlife Trust	A strong turnout; fairly wide public engagement.
Number of sightings	Over 2,500 squirrel sightings recorded Scottish Wildlife Trust	This is the second-highest total recorded in the survey’s history. Scottish Wildlife Trust
Increase vs prior year	~30 % increase in reports compared to 2023 Scottish Wildlife Trust	Indicates heightened engagement or perhaps increased squirrel activity.
Geographic insights	No grey squirrels spotted in Aberdeen in the survey period — indicating success of ongoing grey removal work there; low density incursions detected northwards in Lowland areas such as Perthshire Scottish Wildlife Trust	Conservation actions appear to be working locally; the data help detect potential threats creeping into red squirrel zones.
National context	It is estimated that Britain has about 287,000 native red squirrels, of which around 80 % live in Scotland. NatureScot	This underscores that Scotland remains the red squirrel stronghold in the UK.

Red squirrel populations have declined dramatically in the UK over the past century.

The biggest pressures are competition from grey squirrels (which are larger, more generalist, and more aggressive in resource use) and the disease squirrelpox virus (SQPV), which grey squirrels can carry asymptomatically but which is almost always fatal to red squirrels.

Habit fragmentation and woodland loss also pose serious challenges: isolated patches of habitat may be too small to sustain red squirrel populations or allow dispersal.

Genetic research is ongoing to inform conservation strategies, e.g. whole-genome sequencing to understand population structure, disease resistance, and genetic diversity in red squirrels.

Overall, the 2024 survey results are encouraging: public engagement is strong, and in certain areas conservation actions are showing impact. But the threats remain serious and ongoing vigilance is needed.

Why Red Squirrel Conservation Matters (Especially for Your Region)

Why should people in Herefordshire and Worcestershire care about a species now mostly in Scotland? A few reasons:

1. Cultural & natural heritage Red squirrels are native to the UK and represent a part of our lost biodiversity. They evoke fond memories and are iconic in British woodlands.

2. Indicator species for woodland health Their presence reflects the quality, connectivity and diversity of woodland ecosystems. Healthy red squirrel populations often imply good woodland management and habitat conditions.

3. Future potential range expansions & refugia While grey squirrels have outcompeted red squirrels in many parts of England and Wales, localised zones of control could allow for re-establishment in formerly lost ranges, especially where habitat is suitable.

4. Stakeholder and public relations For a pest control company, being visibly supportive of native wildlife conservation is a strong element of environmental stewardship. It helps show you care about more than purely removing pests — you care about ecological balance.

5. Potential local data value Even though red squirrels are currently rare or absent in our region, monitoring for squirrel activity (red or grey) can help identify shifts in species distributions, and early detection of any red squirrel recolonisation.

   
   

The Importance of Red Squirrels

Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) are not just cute creatures that charm us with their fluffy tails and twitching noses. They are an integral part of the UK's ecosystem.

They help disperse seeds, promoting forest growth and health. For instance, one study found that red squirrels can significantly boost tree regeneration, benefiting species like pine and spruce, which form the backbone of many woodlands.

Britain is estimated to host around 287,000 red squirrels, with about 80 % of those living in Scotland. The rest of the UK holds only remnant populations.

Sadly, red squirrel populations have decreased by about 50% in recent decades due to habitat loss, disease, and competition with invasive grey squirrels. Their distinctive reddish-brown fur gives them a unique appeal, but without intervention, they could disappear from our landscapes entirely.

We must recognise that the red squirrel's decline is a signal of broader environmental issues, indicating a decline in biodiversity that could affect other species and our natural ecosystems.

Threats to Red Squirrels

The decline of red squirrels is driven by several major challenges. One of the biggest threats comes from the grey squirrel, an invasive species introduced to the UK in the 19th century.

Grey squirrels have outcompeted red squirrels for resources, and with their larger size and adaptability, they can dominate food sources. Research indicates that in areas where grey squirrels thrive, red squirrel populations can plummet by up to 80%.

Adding to this concern, grey squirrels carry the deadly squirrelpox virus. This virus is particularly harmful to red squirrels; studies show that in regions where grey squirrels are present, the survival rate of red squirrels drops significantly.

Habitat destruction due to urban development and deforestation plays a crucial role. A report from the Woodland Trust shows that over 90% of Britain's ancient woodlands have been lost, leaving red squirrels with fewer places to live and forage. Climate change adds another layer of complexity, as altered weather patterns can disrupt food availability.

The Role of Red Squirrel Awareness Week

Red Squirrel Awareness Week serves as a platform to educate the public about these pressing issues and to inspire action. During this week, various organisations host events that create opportunities for individuals to engage not just with the information, but also with like-minded community members. Activities may include guided nature walks or talks by wildlife experts, enabling attendees to learn firsthand about red squirrels and the ecosystems they inhabit.

By joining local conservation groups, you can further your impact. For instance, volunteering opportunities can range from participating in tree planting initiatives to aiding in population surveys, strengthening the community's resolve to support red squirrel conservation efforts.

How You Can Help!

You don’t have to be a wildlife expert to make a difference for red squirrels. Here are several straightforward ways to contribute:

1. Educate Yourself and Others

Start by learning more about red squirrels, their habitats, and their challenges. Share your newfound knowledge with friends and family. You could even organise a small gathering where you discuss the importance of wildlife conservation. Simple conversations can lead to greater awareness and collective action.

2. Support Local Conservation Efforts

Consider donating to or volunteering with organisations focused on red squirrel protection. For instance, the Red Squirrel Survival Trust works tirelessly to support red squirrel populations through habitat restoration and education. Your contributions can help fund essential projects.

3. Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

If you have a garden, make it a sanctuary for wildlife. Plant native trees and shrubs that attract red squirrels and other animals. Create a chemical-free environment to ensure safety for all visitors. Small steps like this can contribute to a welcoming ecosystem.

4. Report Sightings

Report any red squirrel sightings to local wildlife organisations. By sharing this information, you aid researchers in tracking populations and understanding distribution trends. Your observations can play a significant role in ongoing conservation efforts.

5. Advocate for Policy Change

Support local and national policies that safeguard wildlife and their habitats. This includes advocating for forest preservation and sustainable land use. Engaging with community discussions about environmental policy can amplify efforts to create change.

Taking Action for the Future

Red Squirrel Awareness Week is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting one of our native species.

By understanding the threats red squirrels face and actively participating in conservation efforts, we can contribute to their survival and the health of our ecosystems.

Whether through education, volunteering, or advocating for necessary policy changes, every action has value.

Take a moment to reflect on the impact of our choices. As we engage in Red Squirrel Awareness Week, remember that the future of red squirrels lies in our hands. Together, we can ensure that generations to come will delight in seeing these lovely creatures thrive in their natural habitats.