Protected mammal species in Scotland
There are 31 native terrestrial mammal species, and at least another 25 marine mammals that have been recorded in Scotland. Many of the more common species do not receive specific legal protection, but there are still laws that protect them against cruelty or exploitation.
However, many species of mammal found in Scotland receive specific protection because they are rare, vulnerable to disturbance or have a history of persecution. Click on the links below to find out more about these species and how they are protected.
Squirrels
Our native red squirrels are specially protected. Grey squirrels are not native to Scotland.