Once widespread, red squirrels have undergone a catastrophic population decline in the UK.

HLF has just given the green light to a project which will help turn that downward trend around. Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels has received £37,800 of development funding to help them progress their plans to apply for a full grant of £2.46million at a later date. 

The project hopes to capture people’s natural enthusiasm for this charismatic creature by developing a network of voluntary conservation groups.

[quote=Dr Mel Tonkin, Scottish Wildlife Trust Project Manager]"People love red squirrels – we want to harness that enthusiasm and get communities involved in their conservation."[/quote]

Scottish Wildlife Trust Project Manager, Dr Mel Tonkin, explains: "People love red squirrels – we want to harness that enthusiasm and get communities involved in their conservation.

"This HLF grant will give us the chance to share our expertise with a range of people who are passionate about their local red squirrel populations."

Scotland’s biodiversity

Scotland has some incredible native species but many, along with their habitats, are under constant threat. Thanks to players of the National Lottery, more than £5m has been invested in projects to protect species including:

• Sea eagles
• Scottish wildcats
• Native black bees
• Scottish sharks
• Choughs
• Badgers
• Black grouse
• Butterflies and moths
• Red kites

Scotland’s biodiversity is one of its greatest national assets, attracting visitors from home and abroad and making a valuable contribution to the tourist economy. 

Thanks to HLF-supported projects, where once numbers dwindled, many are now thriving - bringing delight to anyone who catches a glimpse of one of these wonderful creatures.