Red squirrels find safe haven on Jersey

While red squirrels face severe declines across England and are endangered throughout the United Kingdom, the Channel Island of Jersey has developed into a thriving sanctuary for the species. With only an estimated 120,000 to 160,000 individuals remaining across Britain—mostly concentrated in Scotland—the animals have found exceptional stability on the island.

The critical factor behind their local success is the total absence of grey squirrels, an introduced species elsewhere that spreads a lethal virus among red populations. Although red squirrels were first brought to Jersey in 1885 rather than living there natively, conservation specialists now consider them fully established and central to the local environment.

According to the National Trust of Jersey, the island serves as a vital refuge where the rodents are widely dispersed, particularly throughout inland valleys and wooded areas. Henry Glynn, an ecologist representing the organisation, noted that the creatures have turned into an iconic attraction, with numerous visitors from Britain arriving specifically hoping to glimpse an animal that is increasingly scarce in their home regions.

Legal protections make harming the animals an offence, but active community participation also plays a major role in their welfare. Nina Powell, a senior carer with the local animal welfare group JSPCA, explained that island residents frequently aid the animals by setting out garden feeding stations. Infrastructure such as tree canopy rope bridges and reduced driving speeds further helps them navigate shrinking natural spaces.

The animal protection organisation has tended to 50 red squirrels during the current year, including eight hand-reared babies, while ensuring care remains minimally intrusive so the animals stay wild. Both wildlife advocates and local carers emphasize that high public enthusiasm and constant reports from delighted residents continue to keep the island's population secure.