Biodiversity Northern Ireland

Derry Red Squirrel Group

The red squirrel population has declined rapidly in recent years, due to the spread of and competition with the grey squirrel, disease, habitat loss and fragmentation. Since the introduction of the American grey squirrel to County Longford 100 years ago, the red squirrel has had to compete with the grey squirrel for food and territory, ultimately losing this battle and gradually being pushed out of its natural range. Without help, the red squirrel will eventually disappear from the city. 

This first meeting, will discuss the conservation issues surrounding red squirrels and explore what local action can be taken to help.  A vital starting point will be to map recent sightings of red and grey squirrels throughout the Derry City Council area. Red squirrels have been recorded around Learmount Forest, Prehen Wood, St Columb’s Park, Gransha Wood and Muff Glen. So ask your friends and neighbours where and when they have last seen a squirrel and either bring these records to the meeting, or email them to christine.doherty@derrycity.gov.uk