A Triumph for Native Red Squirrels: The Fight Against Grey Squirrels in Aberdeen

In a remarkable turn of events, native red squirrels are on the brink of a significant victory in their long-standing battle for survival against the invasive grey squirrels in Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s major cities. This development marks a hopeful chapter in the ongoing efforts to restore the natural balance of wildlife in the region, where red squirrels have faced relentless competition from their non-native counterparts.

The Decline of Grey Squirrels

Recent reports from the project Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels (SSRS), led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, indicate a "significant decline" in the grey squirrel population within the city. Since the project’s inception in 2009, over 10,000 grey squirrels have been trapped, paving the way for a potential eradication of this invasive species in Aberdeen. This year alone, only 12 instances of grey squirrels have been recorded, a stark contrast to the thousands that once thrived in the area.

Dr. Emma Sheehy, the SSRS’s eradication scientific lead for northeast Scotland, shared insights into the success of the project. "In Aberdeen, what we have seen over the last four years is a consistent and significant decline in the numbers of grey squirrels trapped," she explained. The data reflects a strategic approach to trapping, which has become increasingly targeted as grey squirrel densities have diminished.

The Struggle of Red Squirrels

Historically, red squirrels have faced numerous challenges due to the introduction of grey squirrels to the UK from North America in the 19th century. Grey squirrels outcompete red squirrels for food and habitat, and they also carry the squirrelpox virus, which is harmless to them but fatal to red squirrels. The arrival of grey squirrels in Aberdeen during the 1970s led to the near extinction of the native red population in the city.

Scotland is home to approximately 80 percent of the UK’s red squirrel population, making the conservation of this species particularly vital. The SSRS has been at the forefront of efforts to protect and restore red squirrels in the region, employing a combination of trapping, public engagement, and habitat management.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of the SSRS initiative is not solely due to the organization’s efforts; public involvement has played a crucial role. With grey squirrel numbers dwindling, the importance of public sightings has increased. Dr. Sheehy emphasized that "public sightings are more important and crucial to our efforts than ever," as they help track the remaining grey squirrels in the area.

The community’s engagement has been instrumental in the project’s success, with residents encouraged to report sightings and contribute to the conservation efforts. This collaborative approach has fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the local wildlife and has heightened awareness of the challenges faced by red squirrels.

The Road Ahead

While the decline of grey squirrels in Aberdeen is promising, the journey toward complete eradication is fraught with challenges. Dr. Sheehy noted that the final stages of removal are often the most difficult, particularly in urban and semi-urban environments where grey squirrels can be elusive. "How long it will take to achieve complete eradication will depend on our ability to remove the remaining few squirrels," she stated.

The SSRS continues to adapt its methods and strategies to ensure the success of the project. As the team works diligently to monitor and manage the remaining grey squirrels, the hope is that red squirrels will once again thrive in their natural habitat.

Conclusion

The ongoing efforts to protect and restore the native red squirrel population in Aberdeen serve as a testament to the power of conservation initiatives and community involvement. With the grey squirrel population on the decline, there is renewed hope for the future of red squirrels in the city. As the SSRS continues its work, the triumph of the red squirrel may soon become a reality, marking a significant victory in the battle for biodiversity in Scotland.