The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary has welcomed three Red squirrels from Kelling Heath in North Norfolk as part of Suffolk Owl Sanctuary’s ongoing efforts to redevelop its Woodland Walk by creating three new squirrel enclosures. This initiative aims to support the breeding and reintroduction of Red squirrel offspring into suitable wild habitats. The sanctuary is excited about the role it will play in conserving this near-threatened species.
David Martin, Kelling Heath’s Countryside Manager, releases the first three Red squirrels to Suffolk Owl Sanctuary at the start of its latest conservation project.
Red squirrels are native to the UK and have been in decline due to competition with the non-native grey squirrel, which was introduced in the late 1800s. Grey squirrels out-compete red squirrels for food and carry the squirrel pox virus, which is fatal to red squirrels. Conservation efforts like this one at Suffolk Owl Sanctuary are managed in a BIAZA stud book by the Zoological Society of Wales and are crucial for the survival of red squirrels in the UK
Our maintenance team has worked hard to complete the first of our spectacular new squirrel enclosures.
Visitors to the sanctuary can now observe these rare and elusive animals in their specially designed new home
Luke Johnson, Animal Keeper.