Comparison of methods for obtaining population estimates for Red Squirrels in relation to damage due to bark stripping.

The relation between population density and the extent of damage incurred by bark stripping behaviour was investigated in a Scots Pine plantation known to have suffered considerable damage. Population density was estimated by three non-interventionist methods that could potentially be applied elsewhere: line surveys, drey counts and cone counts. The different methods of estimating the population size proved to be consistent and produced an unusually high value of four Red Squirrels per hectare. Within the study area, fresh damage was related to local population densities.