Return of the Red Squirrel:
We’ve had great news recently in that Red squirrels are returning to the Lake District.
The Westmorland Gazette reports that conservationists like the Westmorland Red Squirrel Society have helped them return.
Woodlands are being managed to ensure the squirrels have plenty of food to eat and places to make their Dreys (or nests) for breeding.
Tall trees in the woodland help them move around from place to place is safety.
Additional trees such as Scots Pine and Hazel shrubs have been planted to provide them with nuts,. Squirrels will also eat green shoots, fungi and berries.
Progress is being achieved in the fight against the rival grey squirrel as a result of the society’s efforts.
Signs of recovery have been seen at Skellghyll Woods near Ambleside and Betty Fold at Hawkshead Hill.
The gorgeous Red Squirrel with their distinctive deep auburn colour, wispy ear tufts and bushy tail are one of the most-loved woodland animals and are a joy to see.
Until recently, Reds have been mostly restricted to Scotland’s pine forests.
As a native to Britain and Ireland, other areas where Red Squirrels can be found in Northumberland, the North West, Wales, the Isle of White and Poole Harbour.
At mealtimes reds like seeds, bark and sap from scots pines, ripe hazelnuts, acorns and fungi.
More information can be found at www.westmorlandred-squirrels.org.uk
Thank you to Gordon Akitt for the use of his photographs.
