The Red Squirrel

The red squirrel used to be a familiar sight for UK residents in bygone days, but today there are only around 140,000 of our native species still in existence – compared to the grey squirrel population, which stands at around 2.5 million.

Why Numbers Have Fallen

The decline of red squirrels in the UK is primarily due to:

• Competition from the introduced grey squirrel
• Squirrelpox virus carried by greys (fatal to reds)
• Habitat loss as woodland has been cleared
• Fragmentation of remaining forest areas

Red squirrels are smaller and more delicate than their grey cousins, and they struggle to compete for resources. The squirrelpox virus is particularly devastating – grey squirrels carry it without harm, but it's fatal to reds.

The Importance of Conifers

While Cornwall doesn't currently have a red squirrel population, our conifer collection in the Pinetum provides the type of habitat these beautiful creatures need.

"Pine seeds are a favourite food of red squirrels, and our diverse conifer collection demonstrates the importance of preserving these trees."

Red squirrels are specially adapted to eat conifer seeds – their smaller size and lighter weight allows them to reach cones that grey squirrels cannot. Protecting and expanding conifer woodland is essential for their survival.

Conservation Efforts

Through our conservation education programs, we help visitors understand the importance of protecting native species. Projects in Scotland, Northumberland, and parts of Wales are working to create safe zones for reds.

Every tree we plant and protect contributes to the broader effort of maintaining biodiversity in the UK. Perhaps one day, if populations recover, red squirrels might return to Cornwall.