The short version
- Red squirrel numbers in Jersey remain robust due to the total exclusion of grey squirrels, which carry a lethal virus for native reds.
- Local residents actively support the population through feeding stations and habitat protection, viewing the animals as iconic despite their non-native status.
- While endangered across much of Britain with only 120,000 to 160,000 remaining, Jersey offers a stable refuge where sightings are common.
The red squirrel population in Jersey is flourishing at a time when the species faces severe decline across the rest of the United Kingdom. Conservationists identify the Channel Island as a vital sanctuary for these animals, which are classified as endangered in Britain. While estimates suggest only between 120,000 and 160,000 red squirrels remain in the wild nationwide, Jersey maintains a significant stronghold. This stability stands in stark contrast to the precarious situation in England, where extinction fears are growing, and even Scotland, which holds the majority of the remaining British population.
The primary factor driving this success is the complete absence of grey squirrels on the island. Grey squirrels, which are invasive in the UK, carry a virus that is often fatal to red squirrels but does not affect the greys themselves. This biological disadvantage has led to the displacement of red squirrels in many mainland areas. In Jersey, however, the lack of this competitor allows the red squirrel population to expand without the pressure of disease transmission or resource competition from their larger cousins.
Although red squirrels are not indigenous to Jersey, having been introduced to the island in 1885, they have become deeply integrated into the local ecosystem. Henry Glynn, an ecologist with the National Trust of Jersey, describes the animals as naturalized rather than native. He notes that they have assimilated into the environment over more than a century and are now considered iconic symbols of the island. For many visitors from the UK, spotting a red squirrel is a primary motivation for travel, given how difficult it has become to see them in large parts of mainland Britain.
Community engagement plays a substantial role in maintaining these healthy numbers. Local residents actively support the wildlife by installing feeders and protecting habitats. Nina Powell, a senior animal carer at the Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, highlights that people look out for the squirrels, contributing to their well-being. This grassroots support complements formal conservation measures, creating an environment where the animals are both protected and celebrated by the public.
Infrastructure and land management also favor the squirrels. The island features numerous nature reserves and inland valleys that provide suitable woodland habitats. Additionally, specific measures such as rope bridges help squirrels cross roads safely, while lower speed limits reduce the risk of vehicle collisions. These practical interventions address common threats to wildlife in developed areas, allowing the population to remain widespread and accessible.
The legal status of the red squirrel further ensures their protection. The species is legally protected in Jersey, making it a criminal offense to harm them. This legal framework supports conservation efforts by deterring activities that could damage their habitats or directly threaten the animals. Combined with the physical absence of grey squirrels, these protections create a secure environment for the population to thrive.
Wildlife rehabilitation centers on the island also play a part in managing the population. The JSPCA has handled dozens of red squirrels this year, including hand-raising several kits. Staff emphasize a hands-off approach to keep the animals as wild as possible, noting that individual personalities vary significantly. Some squirrels are wary of humans, while others appear more comfortable, reflecting the diverse nature of the local wildlife.
As conservation projects across Britain aim to boost red squirrel numbers elsewhere, Jersey serves as a model for successful habitat management. The island demonstrates how the removal of invasive species, combined with community stewardship and legal protection, can sustain a population that is struggling in other regions. This refuge offers hope for the species' future, providing a stable base from which conservationists can study and potentially support broader recovery efforts.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Science & Environment↗The British island where red squirrels are thriving
