Oak Tree in the College Valley, Northumberland National Park

Red Squirrel

Red Squirrell © Laurie CampbellRed SquirrelNow extinct in most parts of England, the red squirrel still lives in many woodlands in Northumberland. Red Squirrels live in both native broadleaved woods and in planted conifer blocks but cannot compete with the larger grey squirrel, which is spreading across the UK.

Conservationists are trying to halt the spread of grey squirrels into areas where red squirrels live. Trees are also being planted that provide food for red squirrels but not grey squirrels.

Perhaps the last refuge of the red squirrel will be in the Kielder Forest, part of which lies within Northumberland National Park.

For more information on Red Squirrels and the efforts being made to protect the species visit the Save our Squirrels website.

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© Northumberland National Park Authority, Eastburn, South Park, Hexham, Northumberland, NE46 1BS, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1434 605555 Fax: +44 (0)1434 611675 Email: enquiries@nnpa.org.uk