Confirmation of Fatal Squirrel Virus on Solway Coast

The village of Kirkbean on the Solway Coast has reported a confirmed case of squirrelpox, according to Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels (SSRS). A red squirrel found deceased in a local garden at the end of October underwent a post-mortem examination, which verified that the animal had contracted the highly infectious virus. While grey squirrels can carry the disease without harm, it is lethal to red squirrels.

SSRS has advised residents to temporarily remove garden feeders until the end of the month and to stay alert for any red squirrels showing signs of illness or found dead. The earliest recorded outbreak of squirrelpox in Scotland took place in 2007 near Lockerbie, and since then, various red squirrel populations in the south have been affected. Last year, a red squirrel death north of the central belt was confirmed in Dunfermline, and two potential cases were reported near Stirling earlier this year.

Infected red squirrels may display ulcers, scabs, and oozing lesions on the face, paws, and genital area, which hinder their ability to eat, drink, or move. The disease typically proves fatal within two weeks and can severely reduce local red squirrel numbers.

SSRS encourages the public to log any sightings of grey squirrels on their website to help monitor the spread of the virus.

Author: Gavin Porter