Squirrelpox Alert Following Reports of Ill Red Squirrels
Wildlife charities have issued warnings about possible squirrelpox cases after receiving multiple reports of sick red squirrels in Dollar, Clackmannanshire.
The highly contagious virus is commonly carried by grey squirrels but is lethal only to red squirrels.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of squirrelpox include ulcers, scabs, and weeping lesions on the face, paws, and genitalia. These symptoms can inhibit red squirrels from eating, drinking, or moving properly.
Confirmation of squirrelpox requires post mortem examination. The disease is usually fatal within two weeks.
Infected red squirrels may appear lethargic, often remaining stationary for extended periods and may be easier to approach than healthy individuals.
Expert Assessment and Public Guidance
Experts from Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels and the Eastern Lowlands Red Squirrel Group have stated that it is
"highly likely"that the sick red squirrels have squirrelpox, based on video evidence.
Members of the public are advised to remove any wildlife feeders from their gardens for the next two weeks and to send any deceased red squirrels found to the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh for testing.
History and Spread of Squirrelpox in Scotland
The first known outbreak of squirrelpox in Scotland occurred in 2007 near Lockerbie. Since then, the disease has appeared in various red squirrel populations across southern Scotland.
There has been only one confirmed case of squirrelpox north of the central belt, recorded in Dunfermline in 2024.
Containment Efforts
The Eastern Lowlands Red Squirrel Group is actively working in the Dollar area to contain the potential spread of the virus. They are requesting local residents to contact them if they can accommodate a live trap in their garden.
Red Squirrels in Scotland
Red squirrels are Scotland's only native squirrel species. Historically widespread across the country, their populations have significantly declined, with an estimated 220,000 individuals remaining in Scotland today.
The main threat to red squirrels is the invasive non-native grey squirrel. Grey squirrels are larger, more robust, and outcompete red squirrels for food and habitat.
