Once a common sight in forests across the country, now there are just three populations of Red Squirrels remaining in Wales. The population in mid-Wales is the only one to currently exist without introductions of captive bred or translocated individuals to reinforce the population. A study revealed the unique genetics of this population, which are crucial to conserve for the wider population. 

Red Squirrels have suffered significant declines in the last 100 years, driven by competition and disease from non-native Grey Squirrels, as well as loss of habitat. They are classified as Endangered in Wales, meaning they are at risk of extinction.  

The Mid Wales Red Squirrel Partnership (MWRSP), now led by WTSWW, has been working to protect this unique population of Red Squirrels for over 20 years. Established in 2002, the project has worked to improve their habitat and conduct important monitoring and research. The partnership has records of Red Squirrels using the forests in mid-Wales to forage, nest and breed for over two decades. 

“Our camera traps have captured wonderful insights into the lives of these secretive squirrels and show what a stronghold this area is for this endangered species. Many have an affinity to these animals, especially in the local community, and it’s been inspiring to see how many people have got behind the campaign so far.” said Adam Dawson, Conservation Officer at WTSWW heading up the MWRSP. 

Galileo Empower Limited’s proposed Bryn Cadwgan Energy Park is 1120 hectares, located near Lampeter and Llanwrtyd Wells. The proposed development includes both solar and wind technology, as well as battery energy storage systems. The proposed development is currently at the statutory pre-application consultation stage and Galileo Empower aim to submit the final application to Welsh Government before the end of this year.  

The Bryn Arau Duon Forest in Carmarthenshire offers a rare refuge for this endangered species, free from Grey Squirrels.  If the proposed development were to go ahead, the clearing of trees would destroy and fragment their habitat. This along with disturbance from construction would force any surviving Red Squirrels into the wider area, making them vulnerable to the fatal squirrel pox virus carried by Grey Squirrels as well as predators. Reduced tree cover and canopy connectivity has been shown to have a direct impact on Red Squirrel populations. The proposed mitigation of this development would not be sufficient. Red squirrels rely on mature conifers, and it would take decades for any newly planted trees to become viable habitat.  

This site borders multiple protected areas, including Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas and nature reserves. This development would also negatively impact other rare and protected species including Pine Marten, Otter, Water Vole and bats, as well as numerous bird species.  

“The Trust understands the necessity for renewable energy developments, especially in the climate crisis we are facing, but we believe that development should not come at the expense of nature. All development must be located, designed and delivered in a way that contributes to nature’s recovery, not its decline. We’re in a biodiversity crisis with 1 in 6 species at risk of extinction in Wales. We can’t risk losing another iconic species from our landscape.” said Sarah Kessell, CEO at WTSWW.   

The Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales have launched a campaign calling for people to object to the Bryn Cadwgan Energy Park development to keep these Red Squirrels safe. The campaign is running until 1st October 2025, in line with the deadline for comments on the draft proposal. 

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