TREES for Life Scotland is to “step up” efforts to boost red squirrel numbers thanks to a £25,000 win.
The charity will take reds from thriving populations in Moray and around Inverness and place them into north-west Highland woodlands thanks to the fresh funding award.
While habitat loss, disease and competition from non-native greys have taken a huge toll on the furry favourites, Scotland retains 120,000 of the 138,000 reds thought to remain in the UK.
A total of 140 reds have already been re-introduced to Highland spaces and are breeding and spreading into wider areas.
The funding was awarded by the European Outdoor Conservation Association following a public vote that drew support from TV nature presenter Chris Packham.
Steve Micklewright of Trees for Life called the win “wonderful news for Scotland’s red squirrels and wild places”.
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