Save our Red Squirrels!
Time is running out. We need your help to protect Red Squirrels from development in mid-Wales.
There are only a few days left to object to the Bryn Cadwgan Energy Park that threatens a precious population of Red Squirrels.
Once a common sight across the country, now there are just three populations of Red Squirrels remaining in Wales. For over 20 years, we’ve been working to protect Red Squirrels in mid-Wales but now a wind farm development threatens to destroy one of the few forests they still call home and push this population to the brink of extinction.
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.
The Bryn Arau Duon forest offers a rare refuge for this endangered species, free from Grey Squirrels. We have records of red squirrels using forests in mid-Wales to forage, nest and breed for over 20 years.
If this development were to go ahead, not only would it destroy one of the few areas of suitable habitat but also force any surviving Red Squirrels into the wider area, making them vulnerable to the fatal squirrel pox virus carried by Grey Squirrels. The proposed mitigation of this development is also insufficent. Red Squirrels rely on mature conifers, and it would take decades for any new trees planted to become viable habitat.
Wales is in a biodiversity crisis with 1 in 6 species at risk of extinction. We can’t afford to lose another iconic species from our landscape.
With your help, we ensure their home is protected from development and continue our work to ensure Red Squirrels are not just surviving but thriving. Please use our form to send your views to the consultation team before 1st October 2025.
Why is is the population of Red Squirrels in mid-Wales so important?
The population in mid-Wales is one of only three significant Red Squirrel populations in the whole of Wales, and the only one to currently exist without releases. Thanks to previous research, we know that they possess genetics unique to this area, which is crucial to conserve.
What does The Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales do to protect Red Squirrels?
The Mid Wales Red Squirrel Partnership was established in 2002 to protect the unique population of red squirrels in mid-Wales. As part of this, we have established a buffer area around the stronghold with control of Grey Squirrels. We work with landowners to improve habitat for Red Squirrels. We conduct important research and work to monitor the population to better inform our conservation.
Is renewable energy development not a good thing for nature?
The Wildlife Trusts understands the need for renewable energy developments, especially in the climate crisis we are facing, but believes that development should not come at the expense of nature. All development must be designed and delivered in a way that contributes to nature’s recovery, not its decline. We’re in a biodiversity crisis as well as a climate crisis, and nature needs to be part of the solution.