A new partnership between The Isle of Wight Steam Railway and The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust has seen an exciting nature installation.

Last month (18th June), a new red squirrel haven was unveiled by Cllr Ian Dore, Chairman of the Isle of Wight Council.

The project has seen a new hide blended into the woodland, where nature enthusiasts and visitors can observe the native red squirrels.

They used locally sourced timber and eco-friendly materials for the hide, which has been specifically placed where visitors can most appreciate the species.

The hide features education boards with information about the species’ population, pressing challenges and behaviours. This is only one of a few locations where you can see the endangered species.

The squirrel hide is located by Havenstreet Station and creates an excellent addition for visitors of the railway.

“The Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust is delighted to be working with the IW Steam Railway to promote the Island’s red squirrels.  The Isle of Wight is a nationally important stronghold for our only native squirrel species and it’s a good opportunity for people to see a red squirrel.”

Helen Butler from the Isle of Wight Squirrel Trust