Funding to stem squirrel threat

No infected squirrels have survived

Wildlife experts have secured funding to help stem a deadly virus affecting red squirrels on Merseyside.

The squirrel pox virus is usually carried by the more common grey but is threatening reds at the Formby Squirrel Reserve.

Lancashire Wildlife Trust has used money from the Save our Squirrels project to recruit a field officer to help in the fight against the outbreak.

Thom Dallimore is appealing for the public's help in tracking squirrels.

At least 30 animals have died from the virus since November.

No survivors

In addition to dealing with sightings of sick red squirrels, Mr Dallimore is asking local people for new or regular sightings of red and grey squirrels anywhere in Sefton.

As part of his responsibilities he will be co-ordinating a trap loan scheme for residents and land managers who wish to help in the control of grey squirrels.

Mr Dallimore said: "The public's help in fighting this squirrel pox outbreak is vital.

"Rapid responses from members of the public have enabled us to recover sick squirrels in order to prevent further spread of the disease to other individuals.

"Several have been sent to the RSPCA wildlife rehabilitation centre at Stapeley Grange in Cheshire but so far no infected red squirrels have survived, illustrating the severity of this disease."