A project to introduce Red Squirrels to Caldey Island continues to delight visitors to the island off Tenby, and wildlife photographers especially.

Caldey Island is already a serene and beautiful spot visited by thousands of people every year, and has just enjoyed a busy summer season, after being closed completely last year over the pandemic, but now there is another reason for people to want to visit, after the red squirrels were originally introduced in 2016 and continue to thrive amongst the island’s wildlife.

Currently tied by Covid restrictions to Wildlife Photography within the UK, keen amateur photographer Maggie St George Sproule, recently visited and captured these images, after being thrilled to hear that there were Red Squirrels living within her own home county of Pembrokeshire.

“Caldey Island now supports a thriving, healthy population of these rare and beautiful little animals where they live wild in and around the wooded areas, free from serious predators and competition from the invading Grey Squirrels,” said Maggie.

“My first visit, early in the Summer, was enough to make me realise that the effort was well worthwhile but my best sightings involved hiding in the undergrowth and waiting patiently. The first sight or sound of visitors, human or canine, sent them scurrying into the treetops. I have been visiting ever since and am totally addicted!

“With large numbers of visitors some of the Red Squirrels have become bolder and are much more likely to be spotted in quite busy areas. They could pop up anywhere but sitting quietly at a respectful distance from one of the feeders can yield delightful rewards,” she continued.

“They are charismatic, endearing, photogenic little characters. They are monitored and some food is supplied in lean months but they are wild.

“They must be treated with consideration and respect and do not appear to order! But any encounter will be precious. “Thank you to all those involved in supporting these special gems!” added Maggie.