The Red Squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris, is the only native squirrel species and is one of our best loved mammals. Despite the high regard of affection that this species is held in, the mainland UK population is now critically endangered. The English population has been pushed back to Northumberland and the Scottish stronghold, containing 120,000 animals, is now threatened.

 

The dramatic decline of the Red Squirrel started after the introduction of the Grey Squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis, in 1876 from the USA. The Grey Squirrel is larger and more aggressive than our native reds and also carries the Parapox virus, which is lethal to Red Squirrels.

 

In various parts of the country conservation groups are working hard to conserve remaining populations, and a zoo based captive breeding programme was initiated to breed animals to release into secure areas.

 

Our Red Squirrels come from Dudley Zoo and are part of the captive population managed by the Welsh Mountain Zoo. The Welsh Mountain Zoo has been working  with The Friends of Anglesey Red Squirrels to release captive bred squirrels in various sites on Anglesey.

 

RED SQUIRREL FACTS

· 6 week pregnancy.

· litter of 3-6 kittens in February to March and again in May to August

· 80% of offspring won’t survive the first winter

· Lifespan– up to 7 years

Red Squirrels

SQUIRREL SUNDAY

Sunday 5th October

11am-2pm

Free Event

Come along and find out more about our project.