Without prompt and sustained action to protect them, red squirrels are at risk of disappearing altogether from South Cumbria and North Lancashire.
Red Squirrel Maps>>
Our red squirrel maps show where red squirrels are being seen, and are only made possible by you reporting your red squirrel sightings to us. This year’s map has a marker added to it each time we hear where a red squirrel has been spotted. Our annual red sightings maps go back as far as 2010, and you can see multiple years displayed on one of two maps.
Threats To Reds>>
Red squirrels are now an endangered species but at one time they could be found all over the UK. It is estimated that without action red squirrels will become extinct in England within a decade. Interaction with the invasive, non-native grey squirrel represents the most serious and urgent threat to our red squirrel population.
More About Greys>>
Grey squirrels also cause serious damage to woodland by stripping bark from the trunks and branches of trees with species such as sycamore, beech, oak, sweet chestnut, pine, larch and Norway spruce are most at risk. Grey squirrels will raid wild birds’ nests for their eggs and kill and eat fledglings.
Gallery>>
Red squirrels are elusive, so photos play an important part in their conservation. Here we’ve collected together the red squirrel photos you’ve sent to us.
Where Are The Reds?>>
Places within our area known traditionally to have red squirrel populations include: Witherslack, Kentmere, Ambleside, Sawrey, Coniston and Langdale.
Find Out More>>
A wealth of information and guidance on red squirrels and their conservation.
