Scotland's iconic red squirrel must be saved
Protecting and increasing Scotland's iconic red squirrel population is ‘vital’ for nature and climate restoration efforts in Scotland, say the Scottish Greens.
Party co-leader Ross Greer MSP has proposed changes to the upcoming Natural Environment (Scotland) Bill which would force the Scottish Government to increase efforts to protect and expand the red squirrel population across Scotland.
The party is calling for the Scottish Government to publish targets and a timeline for expanding the population of this world renowned Scottish species, which has been in decline until recently, largely due to the increasing numbers of invasive grey squirrels.
Ross said:
“Red squirrels are one of Scotland’s most iconic native species, but their numbers have plunged in the last few decades. We need more government action to reverse this and get their population back to where it needs to be.
“These iconic little acrobats are vital in helping regenerate our forests by spreading seeds and fungi to maintain the health of our woodland ecosystems. Without red squirrels, we lose an immense amount of work that we cannot imitate.
“Scotland is extremely nature-depleted and if we don’t act now to change that, we will reap the consequences for decades to come. That is why I’m tabling amendments to offer more protections for red squirrels and help their population recover.
“This is a species already in great decline, with competition from the invasive grey squirrels for their habitats and food sources causing devastation for the reds. We can do more to change that through this Bill.
“It is our duty to protect people and planet. That must include efforts to save Scotland’s red squirrels.”