Grey squirrels pose a significant risk to our reds. Not only do they outcompete the reds for food and habitat, but also carry the deadly Squirrelpox virus. (Visit our page at redsquirrels.org.uk/pox.asp for more information on the virus.) Controlling grey squirrels is imperative to reduce the pressure on red squirrels and to prevent infection from Squirrelpox. Greys have been controlled across several areas in south Scotland including the Annan, Nith and Tweed Valleys, south Ayrshire (Culzean) and east Ayrshire. The first known red squirrel to contract the squirrelpox virus in Scotland was detected in May 2007 close to Lockerbie. Since then there have been subsequent pox outbreaks in red squirrel populations in Langholm, Dalton, Lockerbie, Thornhill, Newcastleton, Moniaive and Paxton. Fortunately these outbreaks have been contained by targeted and sustained grey squirrel control. In the case of Annan and the surrounding countryside we have seen a positive outcome for red squirrels. It is not only the report from Annan that has reported the return of red squirrels in the area, but we have had objective evidence from estates in the area that show the increase of red squirrel numbers. This has largely been thanks to a sustained and coordinated grey squirrel control network, comprising of volunteers, landowners and dedicated staff. Their efforts are paying off and are much appreciated.
Posted on: Mon, 02 Sep 2013 10:28:57 +0000
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