FAQ: How many squirrels are there in Scotland today?
In Scotland today, there is estimated to be around 121,000 red squirrels, which accounts for 75% of the entire UK population. Strong red squirrel populations still exist in north Scotland in areas as yet unoccupied by grey squirrels. ‘Pocket’ populations also still exist in Tayside and Angus, a few areas in Fife, Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders.
Grey squirrel numbers are estimated to be between 200,000 and 300,000 in Scotland (around three million in England). In Scotland, they are concentrated mainly in the Central Belt, from where they are now spreading northwards. A large grey colony also exists in Aberdeen city which is spreading outwards across Aberdeenshire. Greys, some carrying squirrelpox, are spreading into south Scotland from England. Greys are not yet present in the Highlands, Argyll or northern Tayside, but most other regions have been penetrated to some degree.
Distribution data is used to create approximate pictures based on the results of the Scottish Squirrel Survey, an ongoing system of recording squirrel sightings across Scotland. Report your squirrel sightings to the Scottish Squirrel Survey via your local red squirrel group.
Maps are currently in development and will be available soon. Please check back.
