Join Priority Species Officer Ross McIlwrath at an illustrated talk in Dungannon Rugby Club on Tuesday 7 October at 7.30pm, where he will share the latest updates on how red squirrels are faring in Counties Armagh and Tyrone.
Ross will reveal findings from the local nature conservation charity’s most recent survey, explore the pressures facing red squirrels – from invasive grey squirrels to loss of woodland habitat – and explain how local people can get involved in helping reds make a comeback.
Tickets for the talk are free, but booking is essential
Red squirrels are a priority species in Northern Ireland, under serious threat from competition with grey squirrels. Introduced in the 19th century, greys outcompete reds for food and territory and carry Squirrelpox, a disease harmless to them but fatal to reds.
Ross said: “In the last few years in and around Dungannon, we’ve had fewer reports of grey squirrels and more sightings of reds in surrounding rural areas. Could greys be disappearing from the area? If so, we may see red squirrels return to urban areas of South Tyrone. But we need more data to be sure.”
Ross urged local people to play their part.
“We know there are still grey squirrels out there, but they’re under-reported. Unless we know where they are, we can’t help protect our iconic reds. By sharing your sightings, you’ll be helping us build a clearer picture of how squirrel populations are shifting over time.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report their sightings of both red and grey squirrels.
Ulster Wildlife’s work to monitor and protect Northern Ireland’s native wildlife – including red squirrels – is made possible thanks to the generous support of Power NI.