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Red squirrel population assessment

Red Squirrel population assessment on Furzey Island, Poole Harbour

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Client: Fieldwork Ecological Services

 

BUG was commissioned by Fieldwork Ecological Services Ltd, on behalf of Perenco Ltd, to undertake a rapid assessment of the red squirrel population on Furzey Island in Poole Harbour.

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A rapid assessment methodology was employed using permanent capture points with treadle operated traps fixed 1.5 m from ground level on pine trees strategically located around the island. Traps were set before first light and reset twice during the one-day trapping exercise. Standard fur clips were used to temporarily mark the squirrels between capture events.

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Data collected were compared to a previous rapid population assessment undertaken in 2008 to assess changes in population size and demographics.

 

A report was produced outlining critical management measures that need to be implemented or maintained to protect the red squirrel population on the island.

BU Global Environmental Solutions

Bournemouth University, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences

Faculty of Science and Technology, Christchurch House, Fern Barrow, Poole, Dorset, BH12 5BB, UK

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Email: bug@bournemouth.ac.uk | Tel: +44 (0)1202 962574 | Twitter: @buglobalenv

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