Jersey maintains a thriving red squirrel population due to the complete absence of grey squirrels, offering a protected sanctuary where endangered numbers flourish through community support and conservation efforts.
While red squirrel numbers face steep declines across England, the Channel Island of Jersey serves as a rare stronghold for the endangered species. The population thrives largely because the island completely lacks grey squirrels, which typically carry a virus that proves fatal to their red cousins. Although rough estimates place the broader UK wild population between 120,000 and 160,000, with three-quarters residing in Scotland, Jersey provides a unique environment where these animals flourish.
Community Support and National Trust Protection in Jersey
Though not native to the island—having first been introduced in 1885—the squirrels have become thoroughly naturalised over generations. Henry Glynn, an ecologist with the National Trust of Jersey, noted their cultural significance on the island.
When you speak to people who have come over to visit the island from the UK, a lot of them will say that one of the things they want to do whilst here is to see a red squirrel, because they’re so rare and so difficult to see in large parts of the UK.
Henry Glynn, ecologist with the National Trust of Jersey
Glynn added that the animals really are iconic for Jersey
and have previously starred in tourism campaigns fronted by conservationist Ben Fogle. Local residents actively contribute to this success by installing backyard feeders and reporting sightings to conservation organizations.
Inland Valleys, Legal Protections, and JSPCA Rehabilitation Work
The National Trust designates the island’s inland valleys and woodlands as prime locations for spotting the animals, which enjoy strict legal protections that make harming them a criminal offense. Nina Powell, senior animal carer at the Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA), explained that local infrastructure also aids the population.
Conservation measures include low speed limits and specialised rope bridges designed to help the mammals cross roads safely. The JSPCA has handled 50 red squirrels so far this year, which includes hand-raising eight kits. Powell noted that while caretakers try to keep the animals as wild and hands-off as possible, their temperaments vary widely.
We want to keep all animals as wild as possible, so we try and be as hands-off as possible.
Nina Powell, senior animal carer at the JSPCA
With widespread public backing, protected nature reserves, and dedicated rescue operations, Jersey remains a crucial sanctuary for a species struggling across the rest of the British Isles.