Rare sighting of red squirrel in Scotland’s central belt

Grey squirrels also carry squirrelpox, a virus that does not harm them but is deadly to reds.

The destruction of woodland has also contributed to the red squirrel’s decline.

SSRS, which is supported by the Scottish government’s Nature Restoration Fund, is monitoring squirrel numbers across Scotland, managing the impact of squirrelpox, and helping to combat the spread of grey squirrels in key strategic areas.

It says the introduction of pine martens could also have had an impact on squirrel numbers as it is believed they prey on grey squirrels more than reds.

The group has appealed to anyone who sees red or grey squirrels to report any sightings to them, external and submit photographs if possible.