October 28, 2007
Wales
Wales
A new study has been called for to look into the population of red squirrels in Wales.
Darren Millar AM, shadow environment minister in the Welsh Assembly, has requested the study and has also warned of possible effects of wind farms on the popular mammal.
His calls come during National Red Squirrel Week and after a visit to Clocaenog Forest, which is home to the largest population of red squirrels in Wales.
Whilst visiting the forest, Darren met leading red squirrel conservationist, Craig
Shuttleworth.
Mr Millar said: ‘The red squirrel is a protected species and much loved part of our natural heritage.
“I am proud to have the largest population of the squirrels in Wales in my own constituency.
“I am concerned however, that much of the data we have on squirrels is outdated and that conservation needs are not being met.
“The development of wind farms in the Clocaenog Forest area is particularly worrying given that there is little information as to how such developments, which include tree felling, will affect red squirrel populations.
“I have written to the Countryside Council for Wales to ask them to undertake a national survey so that appropriate conservation action can be taken and I trust that my request will be supported.”
He added: “We must do all we can to protect and ensure the long term survival of red squirrels in Wales – it would be a tragedy to lose them.”
25 October 2007
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2007/10/28/am-calls-for-study-of-red-squirrels/