red squirrel

 

Conservation groups in England are “devastated” following confirmation of a deadly squirrel pox outbreak among red squirrels in Northumberland.

Volunteers from the Cramlington and District Red Squirrel Group observed several red squirrels displaying symptoms of the disease. A carcass sent for analysis confirmed the presence of squirrel pox.

The virus, carried by grey squirrels without harming them, causes severe suffering and often death in red squirrels. While the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed this isolated case, it stated there is no risk to humans or livestock.

In 2024, volunteer groups working to protect Britain’s native red squirrel population have reported a surge in grey squirrels encroaching on red squirrel habitats. The larger, more aggressive greys pose both a physical and disease-related threat to reds.

Leon Savage, from the Cramlington group, said: “We haven’t had an outbreak of squirrel pox for a number of years so this is a devasating development.”

“We think we’ve had about four cases within a half-mile radius in two separate woodlands in Blyth, and another one in New Hartley.”

“Unfortunately we’ve now had confirmation from the Animal and Plant Health Agency that it is squirrel pox,” he added.

The Cramlington group is urging residents in areas including Blyth, Seaton Sluice, New Hartley, Seaton Delaval, and Seghill to remove garden feeders shared by red and grey squirrels to help prevent further spread of the disease.

Meanwhile, the Bedlington and District Red Squirrel Group has also reported a suspected case of squirrel pox in their area, heightening concerns for the already vulnerable red squirrel population.

Co-ordinator Paul Brannon said: “We spotted one in Gallagher Park on the cameras, but we haven’t caught it so it may have died.”

“We’re hoping it’s an isolated case,” he said, adding: “We just have to keep fighting.”

Ian Glendinning, chair of Northern Red Squirrels – which represents volunteer conservation groups – said: “These groups are doing fantastic work to protect small pockets of red squirrels.”

“But they are isolated populations, and if the pox spreads it could be curtains for them – which would be absolutely devastating after the efforts volunteers have put in,” he added.

In a statement, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said: “There is a confirmed case of squirrel pox in the Blyth area of Northumberland.

“We encourage members of the public to report any suspected incidents to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”

 

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