Lovers show they care for wildlife this Valentine's Day

Romantics are showing they care for endangered wildlife this Valentine’s Day. With signs of spring already appearing across Dorset, love is in the air and the latest e-Valentine card from Dorset Wildlife Trust is raising awareness of the plight of one of Dorset’s most lovable animals, the native red squirrel.

Help protect this precious native species

The population of about 200 red squirrels on Brownsea Island and a small number on other islands in Poole Harbour are all that remain of Dorset’s native red squirrels and are one of only two populations left in southern England (the other is on the Isle of Wight).

Elsewhere in the south and across much of England grey squirrels, introduced from North America, have competed successfully for food and nest sites and brought a virus which can kill the native reds. Dorset Wildlife Trust, which manages around half of the National Trust owned island, works constantly to manage the island’s woodlands for the benefit of this precious native squirrel population.

Show someone you love them whilst protecting these rare animals

Abby Gibbs, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s warden on Brownsea Island, said: “This is one of the most important groups of red squirrels in England, saved from the greys by the waters of Poole Harbour. We need to work hard to keep their woodland habitat in good condition, with plenty of cones and nuts to eat and suitable trees for their dreys. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to tell someone you love them and show a little love for this rare and endearing animal at the same time.”

Send your free e-Valentine here 

Adopt a cuddly red squirrel!!

Dorset Wildlife Trust’s red squirrel adoption scheme helps to fund this vital work and is sponsored by The John Lewis Partnership, which runs the Brownsea Castle as a holiday centre for its staff.

You can adopt Sparky the squirrel for your Valentine for less than £20, to include a cuddly red squirrel toy (or mouse mat) and a red squirrel book. Visit Sparky's adoption page or ring 01305 264620. To be sure your adoption is delivered in time for Valentine’s Day, please order by 8th February.

For more information please contact Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01305 264620.
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About Dorset Wildlife Trust www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Dorset Wildlife Trust was founded in 1961 to protect the wildlife and natural habitats of the county and now has over 25,000 members and manages over 40 nature reserves. Most are open daily and there are visitor centres providing a wealth of wildlife information at Brooklands Farm, Lorton Meadows, Kingcombe Meadows and Brownsea Island Nature Reserves, The Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and the Urban Wildlife Centre at Upton Heath Nature Reserve.

The largest voluntary nature conservation organisation in Dorset, DWT plays a key role in dealing with local environmental issues. It leads the way in establishing the practices of sustainable development and engaging new audiences in conservation, particularly in the urban areas.