Your support enables us to continue to offer a voice to the red squirrels of the Isle of Wight. Thank you!
The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust
We are The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust, a charity comprised of a group of dedicated members committed to the protection and survival of our native red squirrels, their habitat, and the species that share it with them.
Our Goals
Protection and Survival
We are committed to the protection and survival of our native red squirrels, their habitat, and the species that share it with them.
Education and Awareness
We educate the general public and raise awareness about our native red squirrels, and how to better protect them for the benefit of their survival.
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Latest News & Upcoming Events
The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust Appoints New Chairman as Outgoing Chairwoman & Founding Member Helen Butler MBE Steps Down to Pursue Scientific Work for Red Squirrels
The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust has appointed Nicholas Gurney-Champion as its new Chairman of Trustees, taking over from founding member Helen Butler MBE after 21 years at the helm. Helen remains closely involved as Woodland Manager and through her ongoing scientific work protecting the Island’s red squirrels.
A Nutty Discovery at Howes Wood
Two hazelnuts opened by dormice have turned up at Howes Wood, right beside last year’s bramble nest site, proof that leaving habitat undisturbed is paying off.
Reclaiming the Paths (and a Cloud of Thistledown): A Howes Wood Update
Excerpt: This summer’s explosive growth closed over paths at Howes Wood almost overnight, but while volunteers battled thistles and bramble, a stand of long-buried hazel trees is finally thriving, with a promising crop of hazelnuts for our red squirrels.
2026 Calendar Sponsor Spotlight: July – Squirrel’s Den Collectables
Meet our July calendar sponsor, Squirrel’s Den Collectables at Arreton Barns, run by David and Michelle, and proud supporters of Island red squirrel conservation.
Tractor Trimming and Blackberry Bounty at Howes Wood
This week’s Howes Wood update: Steve takes the tractor out to trim back the verges along the shared track, while other volunteers battle fast-growing brambles by hand, and the drought brings an unexpected early treat for the red squirrels.
It’s Here! Our HOT OFF THE PRESS 2027 Red Squirrel Calendar
Our 2027 Red Squirrel calendar has landed! Twelve months of stunning squirrel photography, £10 each, with every sale supporting our conservation work at Howes Wood and beyond. Limited print run — order yours before they’re gone.