Now these are Grey Squirrels, regarded by many as a pest, since their introduction to this country in 1876. The problem being that the native Red Squirrel population, has decreased and the Grey Squirrel blamed. Two other conservation issues linked to the Grey Squirrel, are damage caused to woodland, and the decline of some species of woodland birds. This article gives more detail about some of the reasons why the Red Squirrel is struggling to survive and how the Grey continues to thrive, despite the human's attempts at controlling their numbers. It also highlights the playful and adventurous character of the Grey Squirrel.
The Red Squirrel Survival Trust gives more information about their work in the North of England, Scotland and in other areas of the country where Red Squirrel's are endangered. It is a difficult question, as no-one wants to see a species die out, however I find it impossible to agree with culling. The charity does state that "where possible we prefer non-lethal methods of control."
Ha... I didn't know that the cute grey squirrels are endangering the red ones... very interesting... We see black and grey squirrels here in Bangkok...most of them running on telephone wires in the city center... poor little things... I remember watching red squirrels and chipmunks on my university campus in the US... loved watching them... and once a hawk came in and snatched one of the squirrels and I was standing next to the tree that held his partner in life... I felt so sad and wanted so much to do something ... but what could I do?
ReplyDeleteHi Lana. Black and grey squirrels? Interesting, I must google. Funny I wouldn't have thought you would have squirrels in Thailand. I found this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yno58c3UYJI - they look quite different in markings to squirrels here.
Delete