Lancashire Wildlife Trust red squirrel campaign launched

Lancashire Wildlife Trust is urging people to support its biggest-ever fundraiser to help the native species which has seen population numbers plummet.

The red squirrel is facing various threats including habitat loss, competition, and a virus from the invasive grey squirrels, with just a few thousand at most left in the county.

To combat these threats, the Trust is participating in 'The Big Give Christmas Challenge.'

This campaign will run from midday on December 3 until December 10.

It aims to gather £20,000 online, with each donation matched 'pound-for-pound' by The Reed Foundation, potentially reaching a total of £40,000.

All funds raised will support the Trust's red squirrel conservation project, part of their ambitious 'Step Up for Wildlife' appeal.

The red squirrel, one of the UK’s 'most iconic' native species, faces ongoing threats (Image: A. J. Critch Wildlife)

Molly Frost, red squirrel conservation officer, said: "This isn’t just about saving red squirrels - it’s about creating a legacy of hope and action for all wildlife.

"Red squirrels desperately need our help as the threat of the grey squirrel remains.

"Without the support of our generous donors, this wonderful creature could be lost from our region forever.

"Please donate if you can, as we’re really counting on it."

With this campaign, the Trust hopes to surpass the £200,000 mark, moving closer to its ultimate goal of raising £300,000 to protect and restore wildlife across the region.

The funds will enable the Trust to extend its conservation work, which involves monitoring red squirrel populations, habitat restoration, and management of grey squirrels.

The Trust's Big Give page will open for donations from December 3 at 12pm.

Every contribution will play a 'crucial role' in preserving the red squirrel species and the wider wildlife in the region.

To donate, visit the Lancashire Wildlife Trust website.