The forest is a good squirrel habitat, but would certainly benefit from management that would increase the diversity of tree species and enhance levels of tree seed production. Luckily, what is good for red squirrel is good for a wide variety of woodland species.

Although the Countryside Council for Wales had wanted to remove extensive tracts of woodland in order to recreate the open sand dune habitat that existed prior to the forest being established, today a much more balanced plan is being put together.

What is good for sand dune species is obviously a disaster for red squirrels. So consequently, the solution was to try and find a balance that accommodates both conservation objectives, and the key is to view Newborough in a national context. To put it simply, red squirrels are at the point of extinction in Wales, both in terms of numbers and in geographical distribution, the species decline since 1900 has been catastrophic. In addition, the current prognosis for the survival of mainland populations is unclear. Contrast this against sand dune habitat which in the medium to long term can be sustained in area and which can be managed relatively easily.