Red Squirrel Protection Partnership

23,265 Grey Squirrels trapped between January 2007 and July 2009.

Report Grey sightings on 07890 600243

Red Squirrels returned to Heddon on the Wall after grey clearance May 2009

RSPP has worked over the last 3 years to clear Northumberland of grey squirrels. Without our work red squirrels could well have been extinct in Northumberland in the next 2-3 years. We plan to push the area clear of greys into Durham. Any financial support you could give will help us carry on our campaign.

Welcome to the Red Squirrel Protection Partnership (RSPP) website! On this website you will find information on our work to protect the red squirrel from extinction in Northumberland.

Across the country the red squirrel population is in drastic decline, and the main reason has been the growth and spread of the grey squirrel. Grey squirrels out-compete the reds for food and shelter, and spread the squirrel-pox virus which they are immune to, but which kills the reds. See Squirrel Info for more.

The number of grey squirrels in Northumberland has rocketed in recent years. The invasion threatens the red squirrels in Northumberland with extinction within 3 years. In addition the red squirrels in the largest preserve in the country at Kielder Forest will also be under threat. For the latest on the current situation, view our latest News and Map of Northumberland.

An invasion by grey squirrels into Northumberland will also have devastating effects on all wildlife throughout the area. A study by the charity SongBird Survival (July 2006) revealed a decline in the numbers of young produced by Blackbirds and Whitethroats where grey squirrels have been introduced. Grey squirrels also destroy Beech and Oak trees by stripping the bark of them.

Do you want to report any Squirrel Sightings?

Do you want to Join the RSPP?

Do you want to Volunteer for the RSPP?

Do you want to make a donation?

The only way to protect the red squirrel and other wildlife in Northumberland is to stop the spread of the grey squirrel.

We have to stop the grey Squirrel by TRAPPING, and SHOOTING.

All pictures courtesy of Peter Curran