One of the few remaining areas of the UK with a large concentration of red squirrels, Scotland is home to over 75% of the country’s total red squirrel population. However, the population is on the decline due to habitat loss and competition with the non-native grey squirrel, with only around 120,000 red squirrels remaining in Scotland today.

While the area used to be home to vast quantities of the animals, there have been few sightings of red squirrels in Edinburgh in recent years. The population is threatened by the deadly ‘Squirrelpox’ virus, which grey squirrels, largely immune, spread to the smaller and more susceptible red squirrels; if left untreated, the virus has a 100% mortality rate among red squirrels within 15 days of being infected.

Tony Williamson, sales director at Dandara East Scotland, said: “As red squirrel populations continue to face the threat of decline, it is imperative that we take steps to counteract this and ensure this native species is protected. We hope these squirrel houses provide opportunities for students to learn about these animals, adhering to Dandara’s commitment to enhancing and maintaining local biodiversity. At Dandara, we pride ourselves on providing quality homes for everyone – regardless of species.”

Lucy Henderson, head teacher at Kirkliston Primary School, added: “We are thrilled with our new squirrel houses! The students enjoyed installing them in our school garden, and it encouraged important conversations about how we can protect and conserve the plant and animal species that call our local area home. We look forward to watching these houses throughout the year and see who moves in!”

Kirkliston Primary School is just down the road from Dandara’s Kirkliston development, Foxhall Gait. The development offers a range of three, four and five-bedroom homes featuring open-plan living, private gardens with fencing to the rear and fully integrated appliances.