Scotland’s red squirrels could receive new legal protections under proposals from the Scottish Greens who say the survival of one of the country’s most treasured species is now central to efforts to restore nature and tackle the climate crisis.
The party is calling for the Scottish Government to strengthen the upcoming Natural Environment Bill with clear targets and a fixed timeline for expanding red squirrel populations across the country.
The plan aims to reverse decades of decline caused largely by the spread of invasive grey squirrels whose presence has reshaped habitats, stripped food sources and pushed native squirrels to the edge in parts of Scotland.
Ross Greer, co leader of the Scottish Greens, said the moment demands action rather than warm words about conservation.
He said red squirrels have been a beloved part of Scotland’s identity for generations and that losing them would leave a hole in the landscape that no government would ever be able to fill.
He described the species as a quiet workforce within forest ecosystems, carrying out the small daily acts that keep woodlands alive and thriving.
“Red squirrels are one of Scotland’s most iconic native species, but their numbers have plunged in the last few decades,” he said.
“We need more government action to reverse this and get their population back to where it needs to be.”
Greer said the animals play an essential role in the health of the country’s woodlands, helping regenerate forests by spreading seeds and fungi that sustain the entire ecosystem.
“These iconic little acrobats are vital in helping regenerate our forests by spreading seeds and fungi to maintain the health of our woodland ecosystems,” he said.
“Without red squirrels, we lose an immense amount of work that we cannot imitate.”
The Greens argue that Scotland is one of the most nature depleted countries in Europe and that the loss of native species is a warning that the country can no longer afford to ignore.
Greer said Scotland will face consequences for decades if it fails to act now.
“Scotland is extremely nature depleted and if we do not act now to change that, we will reap the consequences for decades to come,” he said.
“That is why I am tabling amendments to offer more protections for red squirrels and help their population recover.”
He said the pressures facing red squirrels today are stark and well understood, with grey squirrels continuing to move into areas long held by reds, outcompeting them for habitat and food in a way that has devastated local populations.
“This is a species already in great decline, with competition from the invasive grey squirrels for their habitats and food sources causing devastation for the reds,” he said.
“We can do more to change that through this Bill.”
Greer said the heart of the issue is simple and urgent.
“It is our duty to protect people and planet,” he said.
“That must include efforts to save Scotland’s red squirrels.”
His proposals are expected to ignite fresh debate about the state of Scotland’s wildlife and whether the Natural Environment Bill goes far enough to restore what has been lost.
