Protection

Red squirrel and their dreys are protected under:

• Wildlife Act 1976 and Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000
• Bern Convention (Appendix III)

When do I need to get in touch?

Red squirrels are present in woodlands throughout the majority of Ireland.

If you are planning works within or near these habitats or are unsure as to whether red squirrel could be present, simply get in touch. Alternatively, a site’s potential to support red squirrel is usually identified within a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal.

How can EcoÉireann help me?

We advise you on red squirrel protection and your options. We undertake all types of red squirrel surveys including visual survey, drey search, hair tube survey, feeding sign survey and bait survey. We can also undertake licencing and mitigation. We apply best practice guidelines along with our in-depth knowledge of red squirrel and their habitat requirements and present the results in our detailed professional reports to inform and support your projects planning application or other consenting process.