Red squirrels are having to compete for food against non-native greys

Forestry Commission Scotland has appointed a conservation officer to help protect the species.

One of Juliet Robinson's roles will be to boost understanding into why the far north remains free of non-native grey squirrels.

The red's UK habitat has been rapidly diminishing because of the spread of greys introduced from the US.

The new conservation officer will also assist in setting up of a network of volunteers in Caithness and Sutherland, Badenoch and Strathspey, Inverness-shire and Ross-shire to survey populations of both breeds.

Funding for the three-year contract comes from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Highland Council, EU and the Highland Red Squirrel Group.

Potential threat

Ms Robinson, who is based in Dingwall, said: "I am really excited about this new role.

"There has already been a great deal of work carried out to protect the red squirrel in the area. I hope to continue to raise awareness of this nationally endangered animal.

"I will be working closely with landowners, foresters, gamekeepers, school children, volunteers and the wider public to ensure the Highlands continues to protect the red squirrel and that we play as big a part as we can to protect them."

Ian Collier, of Forestry Commission Scotland Highland Conservancy, said the Highlands remains one of the last red squirrel strongholds.

He said: "Juliet has an important role to play.