POOLE Harbour's population of cheeky red squirrels is to have its survival prospects enhanced by leaps and bounds.

A special partnership of conservation bodies has been formed to help secure the future of Squirrel Nutkin on Brownsea and Furzey islands.

The Poole Harbour Squirrel Forum, which includes the National Trust, Dorset Wildlife Trust, English Nature, Green Island, BP and the Forestry Commission, will oversee the population of 200 of the appealing creatures.

Once widespread throughout woodland in Britain until threatened by the parapox virus carrying grey squirrel, this is one of only two remaining red squirrel colonies in southern England - the other is on the Isle of Wight.

"This partnership project offers real hope for the red squirrel population of the Poole Harbour islands," said Simon Lee, who is National Trust property manager on Brownsea. "The increasing spread of grey squirrels on mainland Britain and the rest of Europe means that these islands are now internationally important to the survival of these wonderful creatures."

Launched during National Red Squirrel Week (September 13-19) the partnership will ensure woodland management by removing rhododendrons and fencing areas from deer and rabbits.

This will allow Scots and Maritime pines to flourish - an important food source for the squirrels.

"By improving the habitat on the islands and carrying out regular monitoring and research, we hope to protect and increase the red squirrel population and secure its future," said Chris Thaine, reserve manager for Dorset Wildlife Trust on Brownsea.

Helen Powell, conservation officer for English Nature said: "The presence of red squirrels on Brownsea is one of the reasons that the site is notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest."

First published: September 24