Moves to protect native red squirrel
Red squirrels are a native species, once widespread in Irish woodlands, but sadly in decline. Their numbers should be expanding in line with the increase in forest area achieved in recent years. But the reality is that in many parts of the country, especially the midlands and east, red squirrels have all but disappeared.
This is due to competition from the grey squirrel, which was first introduced into Ireland in the early 20th century, and has spread ever since. It is antagonistic to the red squirrel. Once it colonises an area the native species is pushed out.
Mr Browne pointed out that, not only is the grey squirrel taking over from the red, it is also causing very serious damage to a wide range of broadleaved trees, including native oak, by stripping off the bark in search of food.
In response to these concerns, which apply to forests and woodlands throughout the country, Mr Browne announced funding for a project with the twin objectives of conserving the red squirrel and protecting broadleaves from grey squirrel attack. The project is focused on a carefully selected area of private and state-owned forests in counties Kildare and Meath.
It is being run under the auspices of the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture and Food and is led by Dr Michael Carey. A strong feature of the programme will be the direct input of forest owners, all of whom will gain knowledge on best management practice in controlling grey squirrels.
