Monitoring Squirrel populations can be challenging given their largely tree bound lifestyle. In order for us to gain an insight into the numbers of Squirrels and the type(s) we might have in our woods we need to establish a monitoring programme. The following instructions describe a standard method of monitoring Squirrels that is currently in use all over Scotland and is endorsed by the Scottish Red Squirrel Steering Group.

The walked transect survey involves walking through a wood along a chosen route (transect) and recording any squirrels seen. Feeding sign data can also be collected by using a quadrat somewhere along the transect. In order for us to be able to compare results across Ayrshire and between a variety of sites there is a real need for a standardised method that we can all follow that takes us beyond gathering sighting data on an informal basis. If information has been gathered by everyone following exactly the same methodology then direct comparisons can be made between woods and/or areas. In time the results gained could give us a picture of the changes that occur naturally within the Red Squirrel's population and importantly the advance of Greys into new areas.

How many surveys will I need to do?

That is up to you! Once a month is easy enough to achieve without having too many early mornings! There are particular times of year when squirrel activity is highest and luckily at these times of year (spring and autumn) there are fewer leaves on the trees so if you are pushed for time then concentrate on these times of year. The more continuous data we have the better.

Which wood should I survey?

If there is a wood near your home, work or one you visit regularly that is of a suitable size then that would be your best bet. This also gives you the advantage of a wee bit of local knowledge of paths and what Squirrels are present. Ideally the wood should be at least 200 hectares in size. Put simply this would be a wood that on a 1:50,000 Ordnance Survey map covers two grid squares, each square being 100 hectares.

Conifer woodlands are best for Red Squirrels but of course they do live in broad-leaved woodlands too, just at lower population densities. If you cant think of a wood to survey then get in touch with any of the contacts at Ayrshire Red Squirrel Group and we will advise you on a suitable location. We also need to have the permission of the Landowner before we can go onto land, unless of course it is a site where there is public access.

What equipment will I need?

All you need is a transect record sheet, a site questionnaire, and yourself. Binoculars are handy to have for that close up view or even just for anything else you might see along the way, squirrel surveys are excellent ways to see a lot of wildlife!

When should I do a survey?

Early. From spring until autumn you need to start before 0730, in mid summer more like 0630. There are 2 main reasons for this. The first is that you will be out when the squirrels are at their most active. Activity peaks just after first light and later in the evening with a long siesta in the middle of the day. In winter the animals are much more opportunistic- if the weather is good they will be out so you too have to keep your eyes on the skies and be ready to go out if things look good. The second reason for the early start is to avoid disturbance from human activities.

Does the weather effect when I should do a survey?

Yes. Avoid days when it is too windy, rainy or very cold as the squirrels will not leave their dreys. In winter they will be more opportunistic when they leave the drey to feed. If the weather improves they will soon emerge. Contrary to popular belief squirrels do not hibernate.

How do I carry out a survey? : Preparation

Once you have found a suitable location for your survey take the time to familiarise yourself with it and find a path, ride, or track that passes through woodland for 1 kilometre. The transect will then be broken up into 100 metre long sections. Use a logical start point for your transect whether it is a junction, the beginning of the path, or some obvious landmark. From there pace out the first 100m and try and look for a feature that will catch your eye or leave a small marker that you will use to remind you. A small bit of coloured tape on a branch is usually enough for the first few runs until you remember where each stop is. Pace out the rest of the route and find out where each stop point will be. A map may be useful for you to mark for yourself where your transect is.

A site questionnaire should be filled in as you mark the transect so we have some record of the type of woodland you are surveying.

The survey

If the weather is suitable then carry on with the survey. On your transect recording form record the following details:

• the name of the wood
• the grid reference of the start point
• your name
• the date
• the time you start the survey
• the weather conditions

From the start point you walk very, very slowly for the first 100 metres. This should take you 5 minutes. Once you reach the stop point then stand still there for 3 minutes and have a good look around. Once the 3 minutes are up then proceed (slowly) to the next stop point for 5 minutes. Walking just 1 kilometre should therefore take you 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Have your transect record sheet handy and should you see any squirrels then record:

• the species of squirrel and how many were seen together.
• How far away the squirrel was from you.
• Any other relevant comments about the animal as far as what it was doing, was it eating, what species of tree was it in, etc are all to be filled in too.

What is the quadrat and what am I looking for?

Somewhere along your transect find a fairly clear strip of bare ground alongside the road, track, or ride. The quadrat's function is to provide data on feeding. By looking closely at which cones or seeds are being eaten it allows us to highlight food preferences of the squirrels. The quadrat should be 50 metres long by 1 metre wide. Any signs of feeding by squirrels on cones or seeds should be recorded. The species of trees in the immediate vicinity of the quadrat should also be noted so that it can be noted if food is being moved before being consumed. Once you have counted all the feeding signs (usually cones) make a note on your transect record sheet and then ensure the cones you have counted have all been discarded away from the quadrat area. When you first establish a transect route you will need to clear the quadrat area completely so that the next time you are recording that area it is only freshly eaten cones/ seeds that you are finding.

Further Reading

Walked Transect Surveys- Instructions for Surveyors. Red Squirrels in South Scotland Project Red Squirrel Monitoring on NTS Properties (1999). Abbie Patterson (NTS) Practical Techniques for Surveying and Monitoring Squirrels (2001). Gurnell, Lurz, and Pepper (Forestry Commission).