Help wanted in counting squirrels

Several classes in counting squirrels have been held already

The Scottish Squirrel Survey is seeking more volunteers to help with mapping out red squirrel populations.

The appeal follows the organisation's latest training weekend on how to identify the animals' habitats. It was held in Grantown-on-Spey.

Classes have previously been held in Inverness and Nairn.

The survey's website - which is at www.scottishsquirrelsurvey.co.uk - has more details on how to volunteer and on local groups.

The Highlands are seen as a stronghold for red squirrels, which have suffered decline due to the destruction of their homes, disease and competition from non-native grey squirrels.

Information gathered by the volunteers will help efforts to protect native reds from any incursions by greys.