Red Squirrel

Now extinct in most parts of England, the red squirrel still lives in many woodlands in Northumberland. Red Squirrels live in both native broadleaved woods and in planted conifer blocks but cannot compete with the larger grey squirrel, which is spreading across the UK.

Conservationists are trying to halt the spread of grey squirrels into areas where red squirrels live. Trees are also being planted that provide food for red squirrels but not grey squirrels.

Perhaps the last refuge of the red squirrel will be in the Kielder Forest, part of which lies within Northumberland National Park.

For more information on Red Squirrels and the efforts being made to protect the species visit the Save our Squirrels website.

How can you help?

If you live in or around Northumberland National Park or have seen red or grey squirrels when visiting the area, you may be interested in the local organisation Northern Red Squirrels. Northern Red Squirrels is an umbrella group that has been created to unite all independent voluntary groups and individuals that are working to help red squirrels in the North of England. It is a 'network of voluntary action' that will share news, ideas and best practice.

Their website allows you to report sightings of red and grey squirrels and links to the local action groups. There is also a wealth of information about red squirrels and frequently asked questions.

If you would like to be part of a group, set up your own group, or report if you are trapping grey squirrels, use the links on the Northern Red Squirrels website to get in touch with them.

In and around Northumberland National Park there are groups in:

• Bellingham
• Falstone
• Greenhead
• Harbottle
• Haydon Bridge
• Hexham
• Tyne Valley
• Whittingham
• Wooler

The Northern Red Squirrels site also has a form to report sightings of red squirrels.

Related Links

• Save our Squirrels
• Northern Red Squirrels
• Squirrel Action Greenhead & Gilsland
• Haydon Bridge Red Squirrels