How baby red squirrels born at Yorkshire Arboretum on the Castle Howard estate are helping to save their species

Now what began with a male known as Eric the Red, and his two friends Hazel and Holly, has since resulted in 12 squirrel kittens or 'kits' - some of which have moved on to Wales.

"In the enclosure, they are so incredibly cute," said arboretum director Dr John Grimshaw. "When you meet them here, at your feet or on your shoulder, it's a wonderful experience.

"By having a breeding population here we can produce 'kits', which can be released back into the wild in other parts of the country. It's been hugely successful. The lovely little kits have been delightful.

"We've had lots of visitors come especially to see the squirrels. They have been able to meet them, under supervision, or to give them nuts from their fingers. Some are going to other breeding facilities all around the country."

Sadly, Eric the Red died in January, and the arboretum at Castle Howard is now in negotiations with a studbook network to bring in a new male and help keep the gene pool fresh. Five females remain in the half-acre enclosure, surrounded by mature oaks under a dappled canopy.

The arboretum has a tree health centre, sharing with visitors the threats, pests and diseases which can impact on tree health - including the invasive grey squirrel which strips trees of bark. This species can also carry a deadly squirrel pox, which has almost wiped out the reds.

The hope is that, in time, the breeding programme can contribute to a growing population of red squirrels, taking back the countryside from their less colourful cousins.

"Red squirrels were once found all across the UK and were the only squirrel native to this country - they should be what we are seeing every day," said Dr Grimshaw.

The project was made possible with funding from the King Charles lll Charitable Fund.