Red Squirrels and Woodland Management

To aid the survival of the red squirrel in the North West in the long term it is important that appropriate habitat management is undertaken to help increase  the range and numbers of red squirrels and discourage the spread of grey squirrels.

This section is aimed at owners and managers of woodland where the red squirrel is present. Red Alert North West's advice is aimed at enhancing the habitat for red squirrels but also bears in mind the conservation of other wildlife too.  

It is important that you set out clear management objectives before making detailed plans for your woodland. In general, woodland management is beneficial for a variety of wildlife. A diversity in species and age structure of trees within woods will provide food and shelter for wildlife throughout the year. Our information will assist you in recognising the potential of your woodland for red squirrels and suggest appropriate management practices. 

Whilst this is aimed at management for red squirrels, it must be noted that management for a single species may sometimes conflict with the conservation of other wildlife.  

In general, habitat improvement for red squirrels is likely to be more successful in larger woodland blocks than in small woods. However, a number of suitable small woods in close proximity can support viable populations of red squirrels. 

Click on map to enlarge

This map shows the distribution of red and grey squirrels in the north west - Click on the map for a larger version. . In woods where only red squirrels are present, management for them should be strongly favoured. In red/grey woods, the priority for red squirrels is lower as the long-term survival of the red squirrel is under threat from the already established greys. However if there are pockets of reds within a grey dominated area, habitat enhancement should be considered. Coniferous woodlands offer the greatest potential for supporting red squirrels in the presence of grey squirrel expansion, as small seeded conifers are not favoured by grey  squirrels.

Red Alert North West's advice is found on the Woodland Menu on the left of this page.

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