Wicklow County Council is encouraging residents throughout the county to keep an eye out for red squirrels, grey squirrels and pine martens and to report any sightings as part of the 2026 All-Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten Survey.
This survey, led by University of Galway, Ulster Wildlife and Vincent Wildlife Trust, aims to build a clearer understanding of the distribution and population changes of these three woodland mammals.
The national survey complements the efforts by Wicklow County Council, which is conducting the Grey Squirrel Management Feasibility Study for the Dublin/Wicklow region. The study focuses on the future management of this invasive grey squirrel species.
Dr Hannah O’Kelly, Biodiversity Officer with Wicklow County Council, said: “Wicklow is fortunate to still have red squirrels in our woodlands, and seeing one can create a wonderful connection with the wildlife around us. By taking a few minutes to report a sighting of a red squirrel, grey squirrel or pine marten, people can transform these individual encounters into valuable information for conservation.”
The red squirrel is Ireland’s only native squirrel species. Unfortunately, population declines have been driven by habitat loss and the introduction of the invasive grey squirrel, which competes with red squirrels for resources and can carry the Squirrelpox virus, fatal to red squirrels.
The recovery of Ireland’s native pine marten offers hope for red squirrels. Previous citizen science surveys have indicated declines in grey squirrels numbers in some areas where pine martens have returned, creating opportunities for red squirrel populations to recover. The 2026 survey will help researchers determine whether these trends continue.
Vicky Knight, Species Conservation Officer at Vincent Wildlife Trust, remarked: “Red Squirrel Awareness Week is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate one of Ireland’s best loved native mammals. By reporting a red squirrel, grey squirrel or pine marten, you can turn a memorable wildlife encounter into useful evidence for conservation.”
HOW TO REPORT A SIGHTING
Sightings of red squirrels, grey squirrels and pine martens can be submitted throughout 2026 through the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s survey form in the Republic of Ireland.
https://biodiversityireland.ie/surveys/2026-all-ireland-squirrel-and-pine-marten-survey/