ADVICE has been issued for protecting red squirrels with the Lake District one of the few remaining locations in England that the endangered creatures can be found.

The tips were issued ahead of Squirrel Appreciation Day today, which is helping to raise awareness of the plight of the nation's reds.

People who have red squirrels visit their gardens can leave certain foods out for them, including hazelnuts, pine nuts and sunflower seeds.

Sean McMenemy, director of wildlife feed company Ark Wildlife, said: "If you're lucky enough to live in one of the areas where red squirrels are still around, supporting them with red squirrel food can go a long way to supplementing their diet - but remember, you’re not replacing it.

"Red squirrels should always be encouraged to forage for food."

Placing feeding stations high up and ensuring that squirrels do not have to cross open ground to reach them ensures that the animals are less at risk from cats.

Before feeding a red squirrel, it helps to know whether or not there are any greys in the vicinity. Bringing the two species into contact could mean exposing a red to squirrel pox, which is usually fatal to them.

Reporting sightings of red and grey squirrels to local squirrel groups also helps, while people can keep an eye out for volunteering and fundraising opportunities in the local area.