England's Red Squirrels at a Crossroads: Can Vaccines and Pine Martens Save Them?

England's red squirrels are endangered as native greys outcompete them and carry a lethal disease; there are about 287,000 reds left overall, with as few as 38,900 in England. The government’s squirrel action plan aims to boost woodland habitat, remove greys from key strongholds, and fund fertility-control vaccines, while pine martens are being reintroduced in hopes of aiding reds. Volunteer monitors and landowners play a crucial role in protection, though conservationists say more funding and practical, on-the-ground delivery are essential for a long-term recovery.