Trees for Life links with Sutherland Estates for red squirrel release project

A PROJECT to release red squirrels into woodlands around Golspie is under way.

Environmental group Trees for Life have linked with Sutherland Estates to push forward the initiative.

Around 20 squirrels, taken from healthy populations elsewhere, will be released next month and in February to woods at Ben Bhraggie and Dunrobin.

Golspie Community Council was updated on the project at its meeting earlier this month.

Red squirrel numbers have been devastated by habitat loss and the introduction of the non-native grey squirrels. Scotland remains the reds' last stronghold.

Trees for life began its squirrel reintroduction project in 2016 and so far have created nine new populations.

The first generation of young squirrels in Golspie should be born in 2021.

A spokesman said: "The releases have all been a huge success. We now want to help reds return as far north as possible and Golspie is the perfect location."

For more information on the project or to volunteer to take part, contact Becky Priestley on 01309 691292 or email her at: becky@treesforlife.org.uk

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