Red Squirrel Projects
A Fife Red Squirrel Project Officer was appointed in December 2007 and is now actively involved in undertaking a wide range of conservation activities in Fife, including grey squirrel control measures, the development of educational materials, interpretation points, and survey work.
A first priority is to deliver the Ladybank Forest project for which full funding is in place. Other individuals within Fife Coast and Countryside Trust are providing support during the start-up phase of the red squirrel project including the organisation of a Research Forum to be held in late March/April. Work continues to source additional funding for a project at Devilla Forest. It is hoped that sufficient additional funds can be secured to continue to fund this project officer post.
But why do we have projects that specifically focus on Red Squirrels?
The Red Squirrel is our only native squirrel species. They weigh between 250 and 340 grams and measure about 40 centimitres from nose to tail. Their scientific name is Sciurus vulgaris and they are traditionally found across Europe and Northern Asia. They were once widespread in the UK, but sadly the Red Squirrel population is confined to Scotland and small pockets of England and Wales.
They have sharp, curved claws to help them climb trees, ear tufts which grow longer in the Autumn months and a distinctive which grows darker in Winter. The Red Squirrel is now protected by law in most of Europe. They are highly adapted to living in coniferous woodland and eat a diet of seeds, berries and fungi.
Why has the Red Squirrel population declined?
The Grey Squirrel (introduced from the USA) is the single greatest threat to red squirrels. They out-compete the red squirrels for food and reduce their breeding success. Grey squirrels can also carry the Squirrel pox virus which can be fatal to red squirrels.
Where can I see Red Squirrels in Fife?
The best places are in Ladybank Forest in the middle of Fife and Devilla Forest, just outside Kincardine.