Red squirrel © Gillian Day
You may expect the first day in a new job to be a mix of nerves, curiosity, and the hope of finding your place amongst new colleagues.
But stepping into the role of Red Squirrel Recovery Network Communications Officer added something extra: a sense of magic. Such a wonderfully unique role warrants an equally unique induction day – and that is exactly what I experienced.
Red squirrel by Alan Wright
The day took me far beyond the usual office tour and straight into the heart of Merseyside’s abundant woodlands. From hidden forest trails to behind-the-scenes glimpses of the work being done to protect one of the UK’s most beloved native species, nothing quite prepared me for the impactful work my colleagues have already begun.
I met with members of the team whose dedication has already made a huge difference. From habitat management to rescue and rehabilitation for orphaned red squirrel kittens, like Houdini. He has received specialist support in growing strong enough to be released back into the wild.
Hearing these stories brought the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester, and North Merseyside’s work to life, providing a deeper appreciation of the passion and commitment driving each project my colleagues focus on. I quickly began to understand how my role fits into the bigger picture, using communication to inspire the public and raise awareness of our endangered woodland friends. Even on day one, I felt inspired to contribute to such an incredible effort.
Credit: donpetroleum
Swapping the cosy office for the lively landscapes of Ainsdale dunes in the afternoon, I walked through the woodland trails in excitement whilst Red Squirrel Officers Molly and Melissa pointed out subtle signs of red squirrel activity in the area. The paths showed signs of chewed pinecones, whilst the trees swayed with the movement of treetop life, and the tranquil silence of the forest amplified the whisper of snapping branches and cracking nuts in the forest canopy above. This exhilarating experience also served as a gentle reminder of just how few red squirrels remain in the area, and I knew that I would be incredibly lucky to see one. The afternoon brought home the urgency of our work and the importance of connecting people to places and species.
Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
As the day drew to a close, I held onto the hope that my patient scans of treetops and quiet footsteps may reward me with a greeting from the star of the show – a red squirrel. The forest, now still, and the setting sun providing an autumnal glow when, almost undetectably, a flicker of movement dashed through the trees before I could focus my gaze. Only a fleeting moment of tufted red ears and a bushy tail, but enough to feel the positive sign of a gentle welcome.
I left Ainsdale with excitement for the journey ahead and the stories I hope to share to encourage others to look up, notice, and care for the wildlife surrounding us. Even the briefest of encounters can leave lasting red pawprints on our hopes of restoring wildlife.
The dedicated work already being made to safeguard red squirrels is made possible with thanks to National Lottery players and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
