As red squirrel populations continue to decline across the UK and Europe, conservationists are turning to cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) solutions in a race against time to save this beloved species. Once a common sight in woodlands, red squirrels have been pushed to the brink by habitat loss, disease, and competition from invasive grey squirrels. Now, AI-driven technology is providing conservationists with powerful tools to monitor, protect, and restore red squirrel populations more effectively than ever before.

Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) are native to the UK and much of Europe, but their numbers have plummeted in recent decades. The primary threats include:

• Introduced from North America, grey squirrels outcompete reds for food and habitat and carry the deadly squirrelpox virus.

• Urbanization, deforestation, and changes in land use have fragmented the woodlands red squirrels depend on.

• The spread of squirrelpox and other pathogens has devastated local populations.

With fewer than 140,000 red squirrels left in the UK compared to over 2.5 million greys scientists warn that without innovative intervention, the species could vanish from many regions within a generation.

Conservationists are deploying AI-powered camera traps and acoustic sensors throughout forests to automatically detect and identify red squirrels. These smart devices can distinguish between red and grey squirrels in real-time, providing accurate data on population density, movement patterns, and habitat use. AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of ecological data, helping scientists predict where red squirrels are most at risk and where conservation efforts will have the greatest impact. Machine learning models can forecast the spread of grey squirrels and disease, enabling targeted interventions before populations crash.

AI-driven systems alert conservationists to sudden changes in squirrel activity or health, such as the emergence of squirrelpox outbreaks. This allows for rapid response, including vaccination campaigns or the temporary removal of greys from critical habitats. Mobile apps powered by AI enable members of the public to report squirrel sightings and upload photos, which are then verified and mapped in real time. This crowdsourced data expands the reach of conservation projects and fosters public support.

In Northumberland, the Red Squirrel Survival Trust has partnered with tech companies to roll out AI-enabled monitoring networks. Early results show improved detection rates and more effective deployment of rangers and resources. Similar initiatives are underway in Scotland, Ireland, and parts of continental Europe, where AI is helping to pinpoint key habitats and track the success of reintroduction programs.

While AI offers unprecedented advantages, conservationists caution that technology is only part of the solution. Continued habitat restoration, public education, and policy support are essential for long-term success. Data privacy, funding, and the need for robust field validation remain ongoing challenges.