FAQ: Can the effect that grey squirrel presence has on red squirrel populations be seen anywhere already?
Scotland’s Central Belt exemplifies the effect grey squirrel presence has on red squirrel populations. Simply the presence of grey squirrels in an area occupied by reds will trigger the rapid decline of red squirrel numbers. Grey squirrel presence and spread has caused the red squirrel to disappear almost entirely from the central belt over the last 15 years. This process has been so rapid due to the flat terrain of the Scottish lowlands. SSRS believes that the landscape of northern Scotland will help protect remaining strong red squirrel populations as steeper terrain and mountainous ranges separate woodland habitats and act as formidable obstacles to grey squirrel expansion.
