New Isle of Wight red squirrel plan marks National Week

American grey squirrels were first imported into the UK in 1876 as an ornamental species at various stately homes and now colonise most of the country.

However, they are invasive, and their rise has been at the expense of the red squirrel. 

Despite this, the Isle of Wight remains a stronghold for the red, which also survives in some other parts of the country.

Red squirrel taking a rest (Image: Debbie Hart)

Different groups in different areas have their own strategies for the protection of the species, which generally involve the physical removal of greys and conserving the remaining reds.

As no greys reside on the Island, aside from ensuring they stay away, Islanders can concentrate on giving the reds the habitat they need to flourish.

The IW Red Squirrel Forum, which consists of landowners, charities and representatives from local environment-based organisations, meets annually to discuss conserving our red squirrels and agree on the local strategy needed to achieve this. 

Red squirrel running through the grass (Image: Ian Groves)

Helen Butler, chair of the IW Red Squirrel Forum, said: “Red squirrels are an important and very much loved part of our native natural environment and, through this strategy, we will seek to ensure that they continue to thrive on the Island.

“We are particularly grateful for the support received through the IW Council for the work we are promoting and, in particular, for the support of Cllr Jonathan Bacon, who is now a member of the Forum.” 

Cllr Bacon, IW Council cabinet member for climate change and the biosphere, said: “The red squirrel is a hugely important part of our native natural environment, as well as being seen by many as a symbol of the Isle of Wight and our rich local nature. 

"I wholeheartedly support the new IW Red Squirrel Plan, and I am particularly pleased that we are going to be able to support the work that Helen and the Forum seek to do through the developing Local Nature Recovery Strategy.”