Squirrel pox outbreak hits Stewartry

A DEADLY virus that can rip through the native red squirrel population has been discovered near Dalbeattie.


Now the Forestry Commission has stepped up its efforts to prevent Squirrelpox spreading.

So far it has only been found in five culled greys, carriers of the pox, but there are fears that it could already have spread to reds in the woods around the town.

The commission has increased its operation to trap greys in a bid to find out the extent of their presence and the pox in the area.

And an appeal has gone out to walkers who use the woods to keep a lookout for sick or dead reds.

A commission spokesman said: “As a result of findings at Dalbeattie we have taken action to concentrate further our trapping in the surrounding areas so that we can collect blood samples, increase our cull and find out more about how widespread this virus could be. Once we know more we can reassess the situation.”

Stephanie Johnstone, project officer with Red Squirrels in South Scotland (pictured), said population control measures have been brought in across the region to try and keep control of the number of greys, introduced from North America.

They have all but wiped out the reds in England and Wales.

“The grey population has increased in areas where there are no population controls, like Galloway,” she said.

“Unfortunately we do not have the resources to cover everywhere but we are working with the Forestry Commission to find out if there are more squirrels with the virus.

“We desperately need the public to report grey squirrel sightings as well as any sick red squirrels.

“Squirrelpox is a devastating disease for red squirrels and individuals that contract it suffer a slow and painful death.

“It is imperative for the survival of our native reds that the Squirrelpox virus is eliminated from Scotland.”

There are encouraging signs that the spread of Squirrelpox can be tackled.

The woods around Drumlanrig Castle near Thornhill were badly affected but steps taken by Buccleuch Estates have resulted in no cases being reported for the last 12 months.

Anyone who sees red or grey squirrels is asked to contact Red Squirrels in South Scotland on 01556 610051 or by emailing info@redsquirrels.org.uk

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