Welcome to the Solway Forests Red Squirrel Network (SFRSN)

Our group carries out practical work to aid the conservation of red squirrels in Dumfries and Galloway from Auchencairn to New Abbey and Mabie Forest. Our volunteers come from communities across our area. We are affiliated to 'Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels'(SSRS)and run as a project under the Dalbeattie Community Initiative.

Many invading Grey squirrels carry the squirrelpox virus which is lethal to red squirrels. This has caused a great reduction in red squirrels in our area. We are developing a network of active volunteers who are carrying out monitoring, raising public awareness, engaging with local communities and landowners with some also undertaking grey squirrel control.

The reduction in Red squirrel sightings between 2018 and 2023 is shown on the maps (data from SSRS). There are currently (September 2024) squirrelpox outbreaks across our area red squirrels are dying due to this disease carried by grey squirrels. Our activities include monthly garden surveys which are a key part of our monitoring activity.

We are a small group and we need more people to help to protect native red squirrels in our area.
No specialised experience is needed to join us. If you would like to help please get in touch. See our Facebook page.