Feeding stations warning after squirrelpox outbreak
PAAn outbreak of squirrelpox has been confirmed in one of the major areas of red squirrel populations in the UK.
Lancashire Wildlife Trust is urging people to take immediate action following the outbreak in Formby, Merseyside warning the coming weeks could be "critical".
During the last major outbreak in 2008, Formby's red squirrel population fell by an estimated 80%.
Carried without symptoms by invasive, non-native grey squirrels, squirrelpox can spread unnoticed before reaching vulnerable red squirrels - causing shivering and painful lesions that make it difficult to eat and move. Most succumb within two weeks.
The trust says communal feeding stations are super spreaders.
Molly Frost, red squirrel project officer at Lancashire Wildlife Trust, said: "Using feeders may seem like a kind way to support nature, but they are dangerous when a virus is present.
"We want red squirrels to be around for generations to come, and our staff and volunteers are doing all we can to protect them from local extinction. We need the support of our community to help us."
The trust said those wishing to support wildlife are encouraged to scatter small amounts of fresh fruit with a high-water content, such as apple or melon. Bird baths and outdoor equipment that squirrels may access should also be cleaned daily using a wildlife-safe disinfectant.
The trust is asking people to report sightings of healthy, sick or deceased red squirrels, as well as grey squirrels, adding every report helps track the outbreak, identify areas of concern, and respond quickly.
Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
