News | About | Articles | Gallery | External Info

Current and Recent Projects

• The ecology of the invasion of the Barbary Ground Squirrel on Fuerteventura Island (Canary Islands) - Marta López-Darias
• Phylogeography and post-glacial history of the European squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris - Andrea Gill
• Ecology of Eurasian red squirrels in different alpine forests - Luc Wauters, Sandro Bertolino & Guido Tosi
• Scottish Squirrel Survey - Mel Tonkin
• Ecology of Introduced Mexican Red-bellied Squirrels in Biscayne National Park and their impact on an Endangered Palm - Geoffrey Palmer and John Koprowski
• The ecology of native Arizona gray squirrels: impacts of introduced Abert's squirrels - John Koprowski
• The conservation and ecology of Mearns's Squirrel (Tamiasciurus mearnsi) in Sierra San Pedro Martir, Baja California, Mexico - Nicolas Ramos & John Koprowski
• The relationship between food supply, bodymass and reproduction in the Red Squirrel in Alpine deciduous forests - Marleen Vermeulen
• 'Red Squirrels in South Scotland' Project - Elly Hamilton and Sue Hearn
• Wight Wildlife Red Squirrel and Dormouse Survey 2002 to 2003 - Richard Grogan.
• A modelling study of the spread of the alien grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in Italy - Clara Tattoni
• Patterns of behaviour of Sciurus aestuans in an urban fragment of rain forest in Brazil, Santa Teresa, E.S. - Luciana Conde
• Assessing red squirrel social interactions at feeding stations in Jersey C.I. - Louise Magris
• Kielder Forest: forest design, management and red squirrel conservation - Peter Lurz and John Gurnell
• The ecology of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in the west of Ireland, with a view to potential translocation opportunities to uninhabited areas of Connemara - Alan Poole
• Red Squirrels in the North East of England - Louise Bessant
• Genetic structure of the red squirrel in Ireland - Laura Finnegan
• Studies on the endangered Mt Graham red squirrel in Arizona - John Koprowski
• Red Squirrel Project in Hungary - Szilvia Bosze
• Belgian Red Squirrel PhD Project - Goedele Verbeylen
• Flemish red squirrel monitoring project by Goedele Verbeylen
• Red and grey squirrels in the North-East - Jason Reynolds
• The use of Spatially Explicit Population Dynamics Models (SEPMs) as a tool for red squirrel conservation: an overview - Peter Lurz and Steve Rushton
• Studies on red squirrels in the Italian Alps - Luc Wauters, Heidi Hauffe, Guido Tosi and Sandro Bertolino
• The Influence of Forest Management on the Spatial and Temporal Ecology of Squirrels - Amanda Lloyd
• Species Recovery Project - Red squirrels in Thetford Forest - John Gurnell

The ecology of the invasion of the Barbary Ground Squirrel on Fuerteventura Island (Canary Islands) - Marta López-Darias

- posted March 2007

Background

In 1965, the Barbary Ground Squirrel (Atlantoxerus getulus), a rodent native to Morocco and small areas of Algeria, was introduced onto Fuerteventura Is. Two squirrels were brought in as pets, but they were soon released and the species successfully colonized the island. Some 40 years after the invasion, few data exist on the ecology of the ground squirrel and its impacts on the native flora and fauna. In 2003 I began a PhD which was focused on the ecology of this invasion.

Objectives

The main objectives pursued in this thesis are: 1) to understand why the species was so successful in colonizing the island; 2) to explore some of the impacts that the species might have.

Objective 1

Four factors have been considered to understand the success of the invasion:

• Climate suitability on the island. To explore this we have used predictive climatic models based on presence data of the ground squirrel in its native range and extrapolated the conditions to Fuerteventura Is. and the whole archipelago.
• Habitat availability on the island. I have studied various habitat variables that are associated with the presence of the ground squirrels.
• Presence of predators in the island vs. in the native distribution area. I study the diets of all the potential predators on the island and compared these with data available from the continent.
• Parasite load. I have explored both the ecto- and endoparasites of the species on the island and in Marocco. There are fewer parastites in the island population than in its native range.

Objective 2

Two potential impacts of this rodent have been explored during this project:

• The impacts on predators populations. One species of raptor, the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) appears to have been affected by the presence of this new prey.
• The impacts on disruption on the dispersal mechanisms of native fleshy-fruit plant species.

Study area

This study was mainly done in Fuerteventura Island, Canarian Archipelago. The Canarian Archipelago consists of seven main volcanic islands situated between 27º-29ºN and 13º-18ºW off the Atlantic coast of north-west Africa. Fuerteventura is the second largest island (1660 km2), the second lowest in altitude (807 m a.s.l.), the oldest and is the nearest to the African continent (approximately 100 km distant).

Financial support and collaborators

This work was mainly financed by La Obra Social de La Caja de Canarias and Cabildo de Fuerteventura, as well as by a fellowship to me supported by the Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia.The study was done with the continuous support of Dr. Fernando Hiraldo. Dr. Manuel Nogales, Dr. Jorge Lobo and Dr. Carlos Feliu collaborated partially with it.

For further details, contact Marta López-Darias, Island Ecology and Evolution Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, IPNA-CSIC, 38206-La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands. Email: mdarias@ull.es, mdarias@ipna.csic.es

Phylogeography and post-glacial history of the European squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris - Andrea Gill

- posted June 2006

Project summary: The red squirrel, Sciurus vulgaris, has declined dramatically in Europe during the last century. Nevertheless, phylogeographic data covering its entire distribution area, which provide the basis to identify the evolutionary significant units of this species and to establish an effective conservation strategy on a European scale, are still missing. Our project is directed at tracing the present phylogeographic patterns in the Western, Central, Southern and Eastern European populations of S. vulgaris, including the Balkans and European Russia. Genetic variation and differentiation of S. vulgaris populations will be assessed and past demographic changes be inferred. Western and Central European samples will be compared to samples from localities in Southern and Eastern Europe. This will finally allow us to reconstruct the genetic history of the species in Europe since the last glacial maximum and to assess the consequences of the expansion of the introduced S. carolinensis, which may be loss of genetic variation, hybridization and genetic introgression. The data collected will be used to define evolutionary significant units for the red squirrel on which conservation efforts can be targeted, and provide practical recommendations for its management in order to prevent further decline of European populations.

Dr Andrea Grill, Istituto Nazionale per la Fauna Selvatica, Laboratorio di Genetica, Via Cà Fornacetta, 9, 40064 Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy. Tel: +39 051 6512 253. e-mail: grill@science.uva.nl

Ecology of Eurasian red squirrels in different alpine forests - Luc Wauters, Sandro Bertolino & Guido Tosi

- posted June 2006

Project summary: TThe Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) has become extinct or very rare in those parts of its distribution range invaded by the introduced Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), which, in northern Italy, has reached the Prealpine forests of Piedmont and riparian woods along the Ticino river on the border between Lombardy and Piedmont. Red squirrels are still common throughout the extensive alpine conifer forests. Spatially Explicit Population Dynamics Models suggest that red squirrels might persist in large tracts of conifer forest, and that alpine populations might constitute a stronghold against spreading gray squirrels. Although alpine conifer forests are likely to present the major area in South and Central Europe where red squirrels can survive on the long-term, there is only limited information on squirrel demography, social organization and habitat use in these habitats. Therefore, in 2000 a long-term project, the ASPER project was started, coordinated by the Italian Universities of Turin and Varese. The main objectives of the study are: (1) Monitoring annual variation in conifer seed production, the major food supply for red squirrels, of Norway spruce (Picea abies), Silver fir (Abies alba), larch (Larix decidua), Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Arolla pine (Pinus cembra); (2) Monitoring seasonal and annual variation in the availability of epigeous and hypogeous fungi, a secondary and probably seasonal food resource for red squirrels; (3) Monitoring population size and distribution using hair-tube surveys; (4) Studying annual variation in squirrel density and monitoring demographic processes using capture-mark-recapture and radio-telemetry; (5) Studying genetic structure of squirrel populations using mitochondrial DNA and microsatellites. (6) Studying habitat use and spacing behavior (home range size, home range use and core-area overlap) in relation to food availability in the different forest types.

Study sites

As a result of traditional forest harvesting in the western and Central Italian Alps all old-growth subalpine or montane conifer forests have been felled. Most of the current subalpine conifer forests are naturally regenerated second-growth forests. Actually (2005) red squirrels are studied in six sites with different forest structure and composition. Two sites in the Gran Paradiso National Park, western Alps, COG and RHE, and four sites in Valtellina, Central Alps, OGA, CED and VAL and BOR located in the Stelvio National park. For details see Table 1 and Fig. 1 in Wauters LA, Zaninetti M, Tosi G, Bertolino S (2004) is coat-colour polymorphism in Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris L.) adaptive? Mammalia 68: 37-48.

Financial and logistic support

Financial support was provided by the Wildlife Service of the Province of Sondrio, the Parco Regionale Orobie Valtellinese, and grants awarded to L.A.W. and S.B. from the Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy (DGE 25-2000), and the Committee for Research and Exploration of the National Geographic Society, Washington DC, USA (grant no. 6997-01). Additional financial support was obtained from MIUR (Ministero dell’Istruzione, dell’Università della Ricerca, project COFIN 2003, number 2003053710-006) to Insubria University, and logistic support was provided by the Stelvio National Park.

The study is in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Erik Matthysen, Department of Biology, Research Group of Animal Ecology, University of Antwerp (UA), B-2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Dr. Heidi C. Hauffe, Centre for Alpine Ecology, Trento, Italy.Istituto Oikos NGO, Milan, Italy

For further details, contact Luc Wauters.Department ‘Environment-Health-Security’, University of Insubria, Varese, Via J.H. Dunant 3, I-21100 Varese, Italy. Email l.wauters@libero.it

Scottish Squirrel Survey - Mel Tonkin

- posted January 2006

The Scottish Squirrel Survey, funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, was established in March 2005 and is coordinated by Mel Tonkin, Scottish Squirrel Survey, c/o Scottish Wildlife Trust, Cramond House, Kirk Cramond, Cramond Glebe Road, Edinburgh EH4 6NS. It aims to set up a sustainable system of survey and monitoring of red and grey squirrels throughout Scotland through using Local Squirrel Group volunteers to undertake systematic surveys. Further details can be found here Scottish Squirrel Survey Information Sheet (PDF) and here Scottish Squirrel Survey Pamphlet (PDF).

Ecology of Introduced Mexican Red-bellied Squirrels in Biscayne National Park and their impact on an Endangered Palm - Geoffrey Palmer and John Koprowski

- posted November 2005

Two pairs of Mexican Red-bellied Squirrels (Sciurus aureogaster) were introduced to the 10 km2 Elliott Key in Biscayne National Park, Florida, USA about 70 years ago. The population expanded to the point where it was believed to negatively impact an endangered endemic palm. In 1992, the 7 m tidal surge that accompanied Hurricane Andrew submersed the entire key and the introduced tree squirrel was believed to have been eradicated as a result. Recent anecdotal observations suggested that the population was extant and growing. A visit by one of us (John Koprowski) to the site in March 2005 documented the persistence of the population. Our study will investigate the distribution, habitat use, and impact on palms of Mexican red-bellied squirrels using drey surveys, live trapping, radiotelemetry, and observation. Field work will be initiated in December 2005 and continue for 2 years.

To learn more, contact John L. Koprowski, Associate Professor, Wildlife Conservation and Management, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA. squirrel@ag.arizona.edu

The ecology of native Arizona gray squirrels: impacts of introduced Abert's squirrels - John Koprowski

- posted December 2004

Arizona gray squirrels (Sciurus arizonensis) were first described about 150 years ago, yet there has not been a single publication on the ecology of this species. Often considered to be uncommon in the mountain islands of the deserts of Arizona and extending slightly into northern Mexico where the species is considered to be threatened, little is known of this large bodied tree squirrels (600-800 g). Introductions of Abert's squirrels (Sciurus aberti) in the 1940s to many of the isolated mountains in which Arizona gray squirrels are found has been suggested to be a threat to the persistence of the uncommon natives. I have initiated studies in the Santa Catalina and Rincon Mountains of southeastern Arizona to assess current distribution of these species. Initial surveys suggest that Abert's squirrels are common in the high elevation conifer forests where most museum specimens of Arizona gray squirrels were once collected. Arizona gray squirrels now appear uncommon in such habitats. During 2005, I will initiate a live trapping and radiotelemetric study to assess space and habitat use of these congeners in areas of syntopy and allotopy. The project is funded through 2006.

John L. Koprowski, Associate Professor, Wildlife Conservation and Management, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA. squirrel@ag.arizona.edu

The conservation and ecology of Mearns's Squirrel (Tamiasciurus mearnsi) in Sierra San Pedro Martir, Baja California, Mexico - Nicolas Ramos & John Koprowski

- posted December 2004

The Mearns's squirrel is an montane island endemic found in the highest regions of Baja California's greatest mountain range at elevations around 3000 m. The species is considered to be threatened in Mexico and no ecological studies have been conducted. In addition, eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) were introduced to lower elevations over 50 years ago and their status is unknown. Related species in the United States typically larderhoard conifer cones. In our first visit to the region in November 2004, we caught glimpses of only two animals and did not find any larderhoards suggesting the behavior and ecology of this species may be quite interesting. Field efforts will begin in spring 2005 with plans to capture and radiocollar animals to assess their habitat use and basic ecology. The project will continue for at least 4 years and we will continue to update this site as we obtain additional information. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have further questions.

Nicolas Ramos, Ph.D. student, Wildlife Conservation and Management, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA, ramosln@yahoo.com.mx

John L. Koprowski, Associate Professor, Wildlife Conservation and Management, School of Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA. squirrel@ag.arizona.edu

The relationship between food supply, bodymass and reproduction in the Red Squirrel in Alpine deciduous forests - Marleen Vermeulen

- posted October 2004

Marleen is a biology student from Antwerp, Belgium and, under the supervision of Luc Wauters, is working on this project as part of the collaboration in alpine squirrel research between the University of Insubria, Varese, Italy and the Research Group of Animal Ecology, University of Antwerp, Belgium.

'Red Squirrels in South Scotland' Project - Elly Hamilton and Sue Hearn

- updated September 2004

Launched in August 2000 and managed by the Southern Uplands Partnership, the Red Squirrels in South Scotland project covers the Borders and Dumfries & Galloway regions, and works in parallel to similar initiatives in the north of England. By presenting a united front covering south Scotland from coast to coast, the Red Squirrels in South Scotland project has established a greater understanding of red squirrel population distribution through extensive monitoring, promoted and encouraged appropriate habitat management and put in place measures to halt or reduce the invasion of grey squirrels into red squirrel strongholds. These goals have been achieved by working closely with the public, landowners, foresters, estate managers and local conservation bodies.

One of the biggest achievements of the project over the last 3 years has been the identification of 25 woodlands, which have real potential for red squirrel conservation in the long-term. It is now considered vital that the experience gained to date is applied to ensure that these ‘Priority Woodlands’ are managed to maximise their medium/long term suitability for reds and that measures are put in place to prevent the incursion of the grey squirrel into these areas.

Funding is in place until October 2005 during which time detailed guidance documents for each of the Priority Woodlands setting out ideal management objectives will be created and developed with landowners and forest managers to create working documents. The local community (where possible) will be involved in active red squirrel conservation through the provision of interactive presentations, slideshows, training days, outdoor events and classroom based activities. Teachers in 20 primary schools across southern Scotland and in proximity to the Priority Woodlands will be provided with a ‘nut case’ full of activities, support materials and a ‘virtual red squirrel walk’ video. A paper version of this pack will also be available to primary schools across the two regions.

The project also aims to identify, develop and promote sites for nature-based tourism, through the provision of interpretation, viewing stations and information leaflets for visitors to South Scotland. Local accommodation businesses will be given the opportunity to become involved in a number of ways with the aim of enhancing local businesses, raising the quality of a visitors’ experience of the area and also raising general awareness.

For further information on the Red Squirrels in South Scotland project please contact one of the project officers or check out the project website on http://www.red-squirrels.org.uk

Elly Hamilton, Red Squirrel Conservation Officer for the Borders, Studio 2, Lindean Mill, Galashiels, Selkirkshire, TD1 3PE, Tel: 01750 23446

Wight Wildlife Red Squirrel and Dormouse Survey 2002 to 2003 - Richard Grogan.

- posted August 2004

Wight Wildlife undertook a survey of woodland on the Isle of Wight over 1 ha to determine the presence of common dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) and red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). This survey was possible through the generous contributions of English Nature and the Mammals Trust UK.

Both species are nationally rare mammals protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). The common dormouse is further protected by the Habitats Directive 1994. The survey repeated a previous survey of red squirrels in 1996/97 as well as visiting more sites and sub-dividing some sites, due to the relatively sedentary habits of the dormouse compared to the red squirrel. As a result the total number of woodland sites visited in 2003 was 284 compared to 249 in 1997.

Woodlands

Size – although each woodland was over 1 ha, the range was large with the largest being Parkhurst Forest (402ha). The size range was: < 5ha - 98 woods (37%), >5ha to <10 ha – 97 (37%), >10ha to <20ha - 35 (13%), >20ha to <50ha - 47 (9%), >50ha to <100ha – 12 (2%), >100 ha - 8 (2%) Character – a number of characteristics were recorded of the woods themselves and these are recorded below. No sites were considered to be purely coniferous, and oak and hazel were found more commonly than other species. Broadleaved species: oak 27.7%, hazel 26.4%, beech 11.3%, sweet chestnut 6.0%; Coniferous species: Scots pine 7.1%, Other pine spp. 9.2%, Other conifer 12.2%.

Mammal Species

Of the 284 woodland blocks surveyed in 2002/03, 243 (86%) woodlands had red squirrels present, and of those: 64 (23%) woodlands had squirrels only. 194 (68%) woodlands had common dormouse present and of those, 11 (4%) woodlands had dormice only. 24 (8%)woodland had neither species present. In 1996/97 of the 249 woodlands surveyed : 71% of woodlands had red squirrels. In the 2003 survey 78 woods were found that did not have squirrels in 1997 indicating a healthy population in the intervening time.

Of the 24 woodland that did not have either species present: 10 (42%) had no species of tree to provide signs ie no pines or hazel, 58% were under 5 ha compared with 37% for the complete survey. Of these woodlands : oak was found in 83% (27.7% in full survey), hazel in 54% (26.4% in the full survey) and beech in 42% (11.3% in the full survey)

Conclusion

The red squirrel was ubiquitous in Isle of Wight woodlands being found in 86% of sites surveyed, regardless of species content or size. However wood pasture and beech dominated woodland seem to be sub-optimal but these would require further research. The common dormouse was found in 69% of Island woodland and reflected the distribution of hazel understorey in local woodlands. This is not surprising as the presence of hazel was the main method of finding signs of dormouse presence. The common dormouse was found in a great variety of habitats on the Isle of Wight and was by no means restricted to woodland habitats.

Contact: Richard Grogan, Wight Wildlife Officer, Wight Wildlife, 2 High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1S. Tel/Fax : 01983 533180, Email : richardg@hwt.org.uk

A modelling study of the spread of the alien grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in Italy - Clara Tattoni

- posted August 2004

Clara reports on some of the results of this joint study between the Universities of Varese and Newcastle upon Tyne on the Aliens page. The web page for the research group at the University of Varese is http://fauna.dipbsf.uninsubria.it/

Patterns of behaviour of Sciurus aestuans in an urban fragment of rain forest in Brazil, Santa Teresa, E.S. - Luciana Conde

- posted August 2004

In this work (September 2002 – October 2003), on the patterns of behaviour of Guianan squirrels, S. aestuans, resident in small fragments of forest, two reproductive periods were observed, one in the spring and the other in the autumn. A stable temporal pattern of behaviours was seen, and individuals spent most of their time in feeding, followed by storing food, rest, and interaction. The analysis of observed social interactions revealed two patterns during the year: the first was mainly characterized by friendly relationships from September to April, while the second, from May to August was less harmonious. The observed diet was classified into nine categories: (1) fruit endosperm; (2) fruit pulp; (3) lichens; (4) dry leaves; (5) insects; (6) fruit offered by park wardens to birds; (7) bryophytes; (8) mushrooms and (9) other. In an analysis of preference, the fruit endosperm category presented the largest daily proportion in the summer, whereas fruit pulp was used more in the winter. The food items most used in the diet of S. aestuans they were Syagrus pseudococos (Family Arecaceae - palms, native), S. ruschiana, S. romanzoffiana, Polyandrococos caudensis (Arecaceae, native), Levistona chinensis (Arecaceae, exotic) and Eryobotrya japonica (Rosaceae, exotic). The results of this work indicate fewer food resources were used compared to other studies. The squirrels used 18 nests in the study area, all close to the food resources. The data obtained in this study show that S. aestuans is a generalist that is tolerant of forest fragmentation.

Contacts Addresses: Rua Coronel Constantino Cunha, 2002- Centro- São Mateus- Esp. Santo – Brazil Tel.: (81-8858-2230 ou 81-32710100) email: lomconde@hotmail.com ou lulu_conde2004@yahoo.com.br

Assessing red squirrel social interactions at feeding stations in Jersey C.I. - Louise Magris

- posted August 2004

The suburban nature of Jersey means that the Island's population is heavily supplementary fed by the general public. We are using CCTV observations of a feeding station together and live trapping of free-living wild squirrels in the area to assess social behaviour and the potential for disease transmission through countermarking.

Kielder Forest: forest design, management and red squirrel conservation - Peter Lurz and John Gurnell

- completed 2003

The partnership between Forest Enterprise (Kielder Forest District), Mammals Trust UK and the Universities of Newcastle and London (QMUL) was highly successful and a background on the project and a summary of its outcomes is given below.

Project background and achievements:

Kielder Forest and Reservoir

Kielder Forest District covers more than 500 km2 in the north of England. It lies within the counties of Cumbria, County Durham and Northumberland and extends to the Scottish borders. The District contains more than 50 000 ha of forest, mostly Sitka spruce, Norway spruce and Lodgepole pine, and the forest holds the largest remaining red squirrel population in England. Most of Cumbria, County Durham and parts of Northumberland have already been colonised by the alien North American grey squirrel, and the threat to the red squirrels in the region is clear. It is therefore vital to manage and maintain a favourable conifer forest for red squirrels in which preferred grey squirrel habitats such as oak woodlands are few and absent from key areas. The Newcastle University and QMUL approach for assessing the forest and its management for red squirrels was seen as crucial to the development of a viable conservation strategy for red squirrels in northern England.

Our objectives at the outset of the project were to:

1. identify areas of Kielder Forest District that are most suitable for red squirrels;
2. identify those areas that are most vulnerable to grey squirrel incursion;
3. assess how the current forest management design plans will affect both (a) and (b) in the future;
4. develop a long-term management strategy based on forest design plans and management prescriptions that will maximise the probability of the survival of red squirrels within the Forest District;
5. establish a long-term, squirrel monitoring programme within Kielder Forest.

We developed computer models to simulate the life histories of individual red and grey squirrels in forest landscapes. These models were combined with the electronically digitised forest design plans and used to explore potential outcomes of harvesting and replanting strategies in relation to red squirrel population viability. The approach therefore allowed us to assess the impact of different forest management objectives for a real forest landscapes on an endangered species.

A working group comprising Forest Enterprise, QMUL and Newcastle University was set up to facilitate an iterative process to identify the optimal management strategy for red squirrel conservation in relation to forest design. A liaison group was also formed to link the conservation efforts of the working group with all regional activities and organisations. This group involved English Nature (Cumbria and Northumberland), Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Northumberland National Park, Red Squirrels in South Scotland Project, MOD Otterburn and the Forestry Commission. Regular meetings were held to discuss results and potential conflicts of optimising forest design for red squirrel conservation with other conservation interests.

The results of the modelling predicted that the current red squirrel population in Kielder Forest is stable with an average of 8,000-9,000 adults (reaching up to 16000 in good years) for both the current composition and the proposed restock scenario.

The western part of the Kielder Main Block (core area of Kielder Forest) is most favourable for red squirrel management given current forest design and felling plans. It was also predicted that the suitability of the forest for red squirrels will change through time with the eastern part of the main block becoming progressively more suitable as the age composition and restock scenario (>2022) change.

Within the Cheviots’ region, Uswayford and Kidland Forest are also suitable sites for red squirrel conservation. These currently support a small populations of red squirrels but are surrounded by a large buffer area of moorland which may preclude them coming into contact with invading grey squirrels. We advised that the two forest areas should be linked and kept free of large seeded broadleaf plantations. Decisions on future restock plans and their success for these two areas will require consultation with other stakeholder organisations such as the National Park, MOD, Tilhill and the Wildlife Trust who manage areas within the forests or in the buffer zone around them.

Both the western part of the main block of Kielder Forest and Uswayford and Kidland would be the most suitable areas for red squirrel conservation in the District if future grey squirrel spread is considered.

Analysis of the likely spread of grey squirrels suggests that there are three routes of invasion into the forest district – Solway, north Tyne valley and area north of Uswayford and along the east coast of Northumberland.

In Kielder itself grey squirrel carrying capacity is likely to increase by over 50% in the long term if a proposed deciduous planting proposals would be implemented. There is therefore a need to carefully consider broadleaf tree species mixtures and in particular the oak component and their distribution in areas managed for red squirrels. We recognise in undertaking this work that there are significant gaps in our knowledge on grey squirrel habitat use, fecundity, mortality rates and behaviour in spruce plantations and more field research on grey squirrels in these habitats is required.

The present and future distributions of grey squirrels indicate that the spread of squirrel parapoxvirus (SPPV) infection into Kielder Forest is a serious concern for the future. There is already a risk of SPPV spreading north to Scotland from Cumbria along the Solway near Carlisle, Longtown, Langholm as well as into Dumfries and Galloway where the findings suggest a continuous presence of grey squirrels. We recommend that management options to limit the impact of SPPV on red squirrels in Kielder Forest District and a contingency plan should be researched as a matter of urgency.

Project promotion and outcome: The project was launched with a major press event involving invited guests at Kielder Castle in spring 2002 (press articles in The Journal, Sunderland Echo, Northern Echo, Newcastle Journal, Financial Times and Observer as well as regional BBC TV). The management approach and findings were promoted with a public University lecture in Newcastle (February 2003), at an international Tree Squirrel Colloquium (Ford, Northumberland May 2003) and a press event at the end of the project which again received regional and national attention (Journal, Northern Echo, Daily Telegraph, Financial Times), local TV coverage (Tyne-Tees TV).

As a direct result of the close collaboration and project findings, Forest Enterprise has agreed to:

• manage the whole of the main block of Kielder forest as well as Kidland and Usway Forest in the Cheviot areas for red squirrels;
• avoid planting oak within the core of Kielder Forest and the Kidland, Uswayford complex, except in specific circumstances;
• base native woodland plantings in the future on pioneer species such as birch and rowan and allow for a long-term natural succession of large seeded broadleaf species;
• maintain where possible lodgepole/Sitka spruce mixtures as well as areas of Norway spruce since these provide a dependable food supply for red squirrels;
• maintain a long term monitoring project in the Cheviot areas to monitor red squirrel population changes with regard to altered forest management prescriptions.

The project was undertaken by Peter Lurz and Steve Rushton at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU and John Gurnell, and was funded by Mammals Trust UK and Forest Enterprise, Kielder Forest District.

The ecology of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in the west of Ireland, with a view to potential translocation opportunities to uninhabited areas of Connemara - Alan Poole

Since the introduction of the American grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) to Ireland, the native red squirrel has been in decline. Red squirrels have disappeared from large areas in the east of Ireland, where the greys are prevalent. Typically the reds are out-competed by the greys in broadleaved and mixed conifer areas. The greys have yet to move into the west of Ireland, with the River Shannon acting as a formidable barrier. In the Connemara area of County Galway, there are large mixed coniferous woodlands, uninhabited by either species of squirrel that could potentially offer the red squirrel a safe haven for the future. These woodlands offer suitable habitat for the reds, and are isolated to such a degree that the greys are unlikely to reach them, even if the Shannon is breached. If red squirrels can be successfully translocated into these untapped habitats their status in Ireland may be assured.

This study aims to expand our knowledge of the ecology of the red squirrel in Ireland and if feasible, introduce red squirrels into a large coniferous woodland. This work will be conducted in three main phases. In the first phase work will be carried out on the ecology of the red squirrel in potential source woodlands to identify requirements for a sustained viable red squirrel population. The next phase involves identifying potential target woodlands that meet the requirements identified in phase one. The final phase will involve the moving of a small population of squirrels from a suitable viable source population. Initially the red squirrels will be placed in a conditioning pen for a number of weeks. Once released, supplementary feeding will continue for an extended period. Finally the released population will be monitored using live trapping and radio collars to determine the success of the introduction.

Some success has been achieved with translocation projects in Britain, and the aim is to improve on their techniques and success rate, and to develop translocation procedures specifically suitable for the unique squirrel fauna in Ireland. This study will be carried out under consultation with fellow squirrel researchers in Ireland, members of the British Mammal Society and the Northern Ireland Squirrel Forum. Translocation work will take place in consultation with Coillte, and the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government.

I am based in the Department of Zoology, National University of Ireland, Galway, and can be contacted at alanpoole@iolfree.ie

Red Squirrels in the North East of England - Louise Bessant

- update September 2003

Red Alert North East (RANE) was established in 1992, in response to the threat of extinction of red squirrels in Great Britain. Originally a partnership between Newcastle University and Northumberland Wildlife Trust, RANE has developed into a working partnership with a wide range of stakeholders in red squirrel conservation. These partners include landowners, conservation organisations, businesses, university researchers and the public, all working to ensure the north east of England remains one of the last strongholds for the red squirrel.

The Red Alert campaign to conserve red squirrels is based on a combination of research into squirrel ecology, population modelling, forestry and public education. Following its successful research origins, the project has huge local public support, with over 25,000 public squirrel records in its database, building up a unique reference source.

A number of large conifer plantations in Northumberland have been identified as potential red squirrel reserves, which will provide the best chance for red squirrel conservation. A range of factors was considered when identifying these woodlands, including size, species composition, age, landowner support, and isolation and defendability from grey squirrel incursion. Each woodland has a buffer zone surrounding it, which we try to ensure is actively managed to keep grey squirrel numbers absent or low.

The first Red Squirrel Conservation Officer for the north east was employed in 1999. Now based with the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, the Red Squirrel Conservation Officer works to implement the conservation strategy, to encourage the ‘red squirrel friendly’ management of the potential red squirrel reserves, and ensuring the buffer zones remain ‘grey unfriendly’. Advice is provided on proposed tree planting and felling, and grey control is implemented in and around the sites identified as reserves. An additional benefit of grey control is that it allows further research into the parapox virus. Results from blood samples from greys are distributed and shared with other Red Squirrel Conservation Officers and researchers.

The Red Squirrel Conservation Officer also plays a vital role in raising public awareness of the perilous status of the red squirrel and provides information to the public on subjects such as supplementary feeding and provision of road warning signs.

The Red Squirrel Conservation Officer is now based at the Northumberland Wildlife Trust. Telephone: 0191 2846884, Email: louise.bessant@northwt.org.uk, Post: Garden House, St Nicholas Park, Jubilee Road, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 3XT. More information about RANE, red squirrels, and selection of the potential red squirrel reserves can be found at http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/durham/RedAlert/index.html

Genetic structure of the red squirrel in Ireland - Laura Finnegan

Laura has just started a project on the genetic structure of red squirrels in Ireland. She will be taking tissue and hair samples from trapped squirrels and road kills found throughout the country,and she will use both nuclear and mtDNA to determine the genetic structure of the Irish red squirrels. By focusing her trapping in old woodlands, and by comparing her results to those from Britain and Europe, Laura hopes to be able to answer the question of whether or not remnant populations of Irish red squirrels have survived in Ireland from the Middle Ages and earlier or whether the entire Irish red squirrel population is derived from introductions from Britain and Scotland in the 1800s.

Laura says, "It would be great if any squirrels workers out there would be willing to send me tissue and/or hair samples (with roots) along with the location of where the sample was taken.

I can be contacted at: Laura Finnegan, Zoology Dept, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland or by email at lfinnega@tcd.ie"

Studies on the endangered Mt Graham red squirrel in Arizona - John Koprowski

Red Squirrel Project in Hungary - Szilvia Bosze

Aims

1. To map the distribution of red squirrels in Hungary (using information collected from the Hungarian Natural History Museum, scientific literature and field observations;
2. To present the data on UTM maps at a scale of 10 km grid squares;
3. To model habitat preference based on these maps;
4. To assess the taxonomic relationships of the Hungarian subspecies.

If anyone can provide advice or assistance, or would like to discuss the project, please contact Szilvia at:

1173 Budapest, Pesti ut 144. I/6., Hungary or email boszisz@freemail.hu

Belgian Red Squirrel PhD Project - Goedele Verbeylen

Title

Dispersal and population dynamics of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris L. 1758) in highly fragmented woodlands (supervisor : Prof. Dr. Erik Matthysen, co-supervisor : Dr. Luc Wauters)

Summary

Red squirrels are typical inhabitants of North and Central Europe's large forests. In large parts of Western Europe though, their habitat is strongly fragmented. A central hypothesis in the study of habitat fragmentation is that increasing isolation of habitat fragments decreases dispersal between them. In small populations this can lead to local extinction, compensated or not by later recolonization, and a higher degree of inbreeding. Until now this hypothesis is supported mainly by indirect studies (correlative research). To gain more insight in the functioning of squirrel populations in forest fragments, an intensive study on dispersal and population dynamics started in 1994 in a fragmented landscape where woodlands occur as small patches. The Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris L. 1758) is used as study species, because it's density is not too high to mark all animals in the population and because fragmentation is known to affect the dynamics of small populations. The study area is an archipelago of woodland fragments situated in the province of Antwerp (Belgium), that contains 58 woodlands (between 0.08 and 57 ha, with only 15 > 3.5 ha) covering 6.5 % of the total area. These woodland fragments have different size, shape and tree species composition and are connected (in different degrees) by tree- and hedgerows. Squirrels were (re)captured bimonthly in all fragments. They got a transponder (for individual recognition, were weighed, sexed, aged, sexual status was noted, hind feet were measured and a skin sample was taken. This provides data on condition, reproduction, fluctuating asymmetry and population structure. To get information on home ranges and dispersal, each squirrel was radio-tracked once or twice a fortnight (and every 1 or 2 days for juveniles and dispersing adults). This was done by foot, car or, if necessary, by helicopter, depending on how far the squirrels dispersed. Microsatellite DNA fingerprinting will be used to study parenthood (to determine the origin of new squirrels that come into the population) and genetic diversity of local populations. Food abundance was estimated.

Flemish red squirrel monitoring project by Goedele Verbeylen

Information on this project can be found on the following web site:

http://www.instnat.be/natuurrapport/biodiversiteit/eekhoorn.htm

Red and grey squirrels in the North-East - Jason Reynolds

I was appointed as Red Squirrel Conservation Officer in August 1999. This is the first time that a full-time officer has worked in the North East. Funding of £125000 for three years has been secured from Northumbrian Water Environmental Trust. English Nature's Species Recovery Programe is also providing £15000 over three years.

The project is focussed upon the Red/Grey interface throughout the north of County Durham and southern Northumberland.The area contains some large (200+ha) conifer blocks, and these are where efforts are focussed. We are not attempting to prevent the grey from spreading across a wide front as this is not thought possible. The Red Alert North East approach is to identify key woodlands and then work in and around those to ensure the reds persist. This is being delivered through long term forest design plans, grey squirrel control and monitoring work. Public participation is encouraged, generating over 3500 sightings in the first year. This enabled the project to quickly get an idea of current red and grey distributions in our region.

We are currently collecting grey squirrel blood samples in order to accurately map parapox outbreak zones and 'high risk' areas. University undergraduates are also encouraged to carry out research projects in the area to improve our knowledge on squirrel biology and management.

My contact details are as follows:Jason Reynolds,Red Squirrel Conservation Officer,Durham Wildlife Trust, Rainton Meadows,Chilton Moor,Houghton-le-Spring,Tyne & Wear,DH4 6PU. Tel 0191 584 3112. Fax 0191 584 3934. e-mail: jreynolds@durhamwt.cix.co.uk

The use of Spatially Explicit Population Dynamics Models (SEPMs) as a tool for red squirrel conservation: an overview - Peter Lurz and Steve Rushton

Introduction

The future of red squirrels and many other threatened species in Britain will depend on an understanding of their ecology and their interactions with the landscape (Gurnell & Lurz 1997). Red squirrel conservation will require appropriate habitat management in selected, suitable areas in order to ensure long-term population viability. Forest ecosystems managed for timber production are constantly changing environments. They are subject to human interventions in the shape of harvesting and planting operations as well as recreational and other activities. Safeguarding endangered species in these environments is therefore a balancing act and requires multipurpose management strategies. Population dynamics models linked to a Geographic Information System (GIS) provide tools that allows predictions on the future distribution and viability of red squirrels or other species to be made under different 'what if' scenarios. They offer the opportunity to explore the impact of different forest design plans, management regimes (Rushton et al. 1997, 1999)or the impact of disease outbreaks on red squirrel population viability (Rushton et al. in press).

Definitions

Process-based models for modelling species distributions are based on the premise that the distribution of a species in the landscape arises from interactions between individual behavioural processes such as home-range behaviour, territoriality and dispersal and the life-history processes of births and deaths. In these models the habitat data act as templates on which the populations processes occur and the distribution of organisms in the landscape emerges as the model is run. The models are spatially referenced which means that they are linked to a map of a 'real' landscape, which generally includes information on the location of woodlands, habitat type (e.g. coniferous or deciduous), tree species and age. This is usually stored in a igitised format within a Geographical Information System (GIS) which allows map manipulations and data extraction. The models can be run for single species under different fecundity, mortality, dispersal and forest management regimes (e.g. control, changes in forest design) or for several species (e.g. red and grey squirrels) together. In these cases, species interactions such as competition, disease transmission or predation (e.g. mink, water vole) can be included in the model.

Examples of recent model applications

We have used models to predict red squirrel distributions and population dynamics in several different projects. We investigated the effect of woodland size and landscape connectivity on the Isle of Wight on red squirrel population viability for English Nature. The results (Rushton et al. 1999) suggested that dispersal on the Isle of Wight is restricted and stressed that some large interconnected woodlands should be maintained if red squirrels are to be conserved for the future. Corridors between woodlands will encourage dispersal and recolonisation of smaller fragments, but may also facilitate the spread of disease.

Other ongoing projects in collaboration with John Gurnell and supported by the Forestry Commission, CCW and JNCC, investigate:

• immunocontraception as a method for grey squirrel control to save red squirrels
• the impact of grey squirrels as vectors for disease (parapoxvirus)
• the utility of SEPM to identify potential conservation areas for red squirrels

The modelling work at CLUWRR has been linked to field projects on cone crop monitoring and red squirrel habitat use in spruce plantations (Lurz et al. 1995, 1997, 1998, 2000), red and grey squirrel competition (Wauters et al. in press) and a project by Amanda Lloyd on red squirrel population viability in Kielder Forest in relation to forest design, management and potential grey squirrel colonisation (see other project information).

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank the Forestry Commission, JNCC, CCW, English Nature and the People's Trust for Endangered Species for their support. We are also grateful to Forest Enterprise Kielder Forest District, Royal Airforce at Spadeadam, Harry Pepper, Bill Burlton, Neville Geddes, John Gilbert and Roy Sanderson for their help and assistance.

Literature is listed on the Publications webpage

Studies on red squirrels in the Italian Alps - Luc Wauters, Heidi Hauffe, Guido Tosi and Sandro Bertolino

The Eurasian red squirrel has become extinct or very rare in those parts of its distribution range invaded by the introduced Eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), which, in northern Italy, has reached the Prealpine forests. Red squirrels are still found throughout the extensive alpine conifer forests. Models based on spatial distribution and population dynamics suggest that red squirrels might persist in large tracts of conifer forest, and that alpine populations might constitute a stronghold against spreading grey squirrels. Although natural alpine conifer forests are likely to present the major area in northern Italy and Central Europe where red squirrels can survive on the long-term, no data exist on squirrel demography, social organisation and habitat use in these habitats. Therefore, this project aims to study: annual variation in conifer seed production, as primary food resource; population size and habitat preference using hair-tube surveys; annual variation in population densities and the underlying demographic processes; and habitat use and spacing behaviour in different forest types.

The main objectives of the study are:

1. Monitoring annual variation in conifer seed production of larch and spruce, as a measure of food availability for red squirrels, and the rate of seed consumption by squirrels and other seed predators;
2. Monitoring population size and habitat preference using hair-tube surveys;
3. Critical analysis of the use of hair-tubes to develop a reliable population density index;
4. Studying annual variation in squirrel density and of the demographic processes (survival, reproduction, dispersal) using capture-mark-recapture and radio-telemetry;
5. Studying habitat use and spacing behaviour (home range size, home range use and core-area overlap) in relation to (seasonal changes in) food availability in the different forest types.

Actually red squirrels are being studied in six study sites that differ in forest composition and elevation:

These studies are funded by different local bodies: The Province of Sondrio, Hunting and Fishing Service; The Region of Lombardy, "Project Multifunctional Use of Forests"; and the Gran Paradiso National Park. Several scientific institutes and NGO's are collaborating, and take part at the fieldwork in a subset of study sites: Department of Structural and Functional Biology, University of Insubria, Varese (Italy); Oikos Institute, Varese (Italy); FaunaViva, Rho (Italy); Department of Entomology and Applied Zoology, University of Turin (Italy); Department of Biology, UIA, University of Antwerp (Belgium).

The Influence of Forest Management on the Spatial and Temporal Ecology of Squirrels - Amanda Lloyd

- completed 2003

Thesis abstract - Red and grey squirrel populations (Sciurus vulgaris and S. carolinensis respectively) and the influence of forest management were studied in Kielder forest, Northumberland and Creech forest, Hampshire between 1998 and 2001. The majority of the work was carried out in Kielder, an upland conifer plantation consisting primarily of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis), a non-native conifer species. The site at Creech was an ancient/semi-natural wood with large areas of Corsican pine (Pinus nigra).

Hairtube and live capture trapping were used to investigate the presence-absence of red squirrels in Kielder forest. Regression of hairtubes use against trapping in habitat- specific types allowed the prediction of the number of red squirrels using hairtubes in mixed conifer crops in upland habitats. The utility by red squirrels of mixed-species crops was higher than pure crops with the level of use changing on a yearly but not a seasonal basis. Hairtubes were used to collect presence-absence data from two forest blocks in Northumberland and the Borders in order to investigate the influence of habitat features of the spatial and temporal distribution of red squirrels. The data was modelled using logistic regression and linear relationships were found to exist between the utility of the hairtubes and the distance to clear fells for both of the forest sites along with the year of the survey. The effect of the clear fell distance on the utility of hairtubes is discussed with relation to food, habitat and fragmentation effects on squirrels.

Tree seed predictability, squirrel cone selection and seed morphometrics were investigated using a number of approaches including large-scale Forest research cone surveys, coneline data, and bomb calorimetry. Overall squirrels showed the least preference for Sitka spruce cones. There was differential selection for cones within the forest stands with peaks for production and consumption at 4 m and 10 m into the stands. Norway spruce seeds had the heaviest seed weight and calorific value, whilst Sitka spruce seeds had the lowest for both variables.

The impact of coning on a red squirrel population was investigated using an existing Spatially Explicit Population Model incorporating the observed seed energy data. The modelled squirrel population did not fluctuate in response to changes in seed energy. The scenario that made every year a good mast year, had an effect by doubling the population and density from 1 squirrel per 5.69ha to 1 squirrel per 3.42ha. The possible reasons behind this and future recommendations are discussed.

The effects of clear felling on a population of grey squirrels was investigated in Creech (Hants). Of the original 6 individuals, 3 either died or left the study area during the period of fieldwork, therefore only a sufficient amount of data for 3 squirrels was collected. Of these 3 squirrels, the home ranges were 25% smaller than grey squirrels in similar habitat consisting of semi-natural/Corsican pine woodland, suggesting a higher density population (~1 squirrel per ha) than Smith’s (1999) findings. On average these home ranges decreased in size after the clear felling had ceased, however 2 of the squirrels increased their core areas. At least 1 of the squirrels was pregnant during the month prior to felling, which may explain some of the ranging behaviour observed. It was however more likely that the squirrels were shifting their ranges in response to food availability rather than as a response to the impacts of clear felling.

Amanda Lloyd email: draj_lloyd@hotmail.com

Species Recovery Project - Red squirrels in Thetford Forest - John Gurnell

- completed 2003

Research into the ecology and conservation of red squirrels in Thetford Forest, East Anglia, has been going on since the 1970s. Since September 1992, I have directed a series of studies, sponsored by English Nature, the Forestry Commission and the People's Trust for Endangered Species, that have the twin aims of studying red squirrel conservation methods that may be applied to other parts of the country, and to assist in the recovery of the very small population of red squirrels that still remains in Thetford Forest. The studies are focussed in a 1700 ha Red Squirrel Reserve, and the person in charge of the field work is Janie Steele.

Objective 1: Maintain and increase the number of red squirrels in Thetford Forest.

The population of red squirrels at Thetford has declined from a healthy population in the 1960s to only a few percent of its former value. This is probably linked to the spread of the grey squirrel, though changes to the structure of the forest may also be important (for example, the change from Scots pine [SP] to Corsican pine [CP]). Work over the past few years may, perhaps, have halted the decline, but significant improvement remains an unachieved goal. A further 3 -year project of intensive work and monitoring will inform a future decision about whether maintenance or recovery of this population is a realistic goal.

Delivery mechanisms

• Control grey squirrels to maintain minimise numbers in the RSCA as far as practicable;
• Update the Forest Design Plans for time to time to include ways of Improving the forest age structure and species composition of the RSCA to benefit red squirrels, e.g. the removal of broadleaves such as ride-side beech, replant some areas with SP rather than CP, and trial the use of continuous cover management in retentions of SP to provide understorey cover;
• Restock the RSCA with wild or captive-bred red squirrels, when this can be done without a high probability of excessive mortality;
• Supplement the food of red squirrels, when and where appropriate;
• Control disease, using information from current research as it becomes available.

Activities

• Control grey squirrels using live-traps, to a pre-arranged plan within the RSCA and in a 1.5km buffer strip;
• Continue implementation of the Forest Design Plan;
• Monitor food take at red squirrel-only supplementary food hoppers;
• Monitor natural food resources. i.e. broadleaf food supplies each autumn and cone availability on trees throughout the year;
• Examine habitat utilisation by red and grey squirrels using cone feeding line transects;
• Captive breed red squirrels on site;
• Release of red squirrels (captive-bred or wild as appropriate), with particular attention to minimising the risk of disease, and full monitoring by trapping and radiotracking.
• Live trap and radio-track red squirrels (wild or captive bred) within the Reserve to monitor performance.

Objective 2: To determine if grey squirrel control is a management option for red squirrel conservation.

The removal of grey squirrels to benefit red squirrels has been widely proposed as a conservation tactic, but there exists only fragmentary evidence to support its use. However, detailed information about the specific effects of grey squirrel control on both red and grey populations is lacking and the work at Thetford provides the best way of obtaining this. In addition, data about effort and catch will be collected to improve understanding return for control effort. This will enable judgements to be made concerning the economics of grey squirrel control.

Delivery mechanisms

• Measure trapping effort (time/cost), together with its costs of materials and travel;
• Monitor grey squirrel populations (from trapping results, post-mortem etc.);
• Monitor natural food resources and its effects on grey squirrel populations in conifer forest;
• Link with studies on red squirrels under Objective 1

Activities

• Record trapping effort within different zones of the grey squirrel control area;
• Examine trapped grey squirrels and record age, breeding structure and body condition;
• Carry out visual counts and hair tube surveys for red and grey squirrel as time permits;
• Activities as under Objective 1