Red Squirrels in Kielder

The forests of the north-east are some of the last locations in England which support populations of red squirrels. To help ensure their survival in forests such as Kidland and Kielder, the Forestry Commission has been working with the University of Newcastle to predict how the ingress of grey squirrels will affect reds in the next few years.

Surveys in FC forests and computer modelling have shown how red populations are sustained by the coniferous habitat provided by FC forests. The habitat is utilised by red squirrels, however grey squirrels are unable to sustain themselves in extensive sitka spruce as the food availability is below their requirements.

The results of this work predict that a core population of red squirrels will remain in some of the larger forests of the north-east region, which form part of the key Save Our Squirrels reserves.

Lead partner

Forestry Commission

Other partners

University of Newcastle

Action plans that the project helps to deliver

Red Squirrel

Start date

2000

End date

Ongoing

Funded by

Forestry Commission

Who to contact for further information

Forestry Commission North East Region
Tel: 01434 220242