Squirrelpox detected near Selkirk

Squirrel pox virus

It is with a heavy heart that we report at least one, and possibly two cases of squirrelpox (SQPV) in woodland outside Selkirk. The red squirrel in question was discovered on a track by a local wildlife enthusiast, who immediately reported it to a professional. The squirrel died soon after and was sent to the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Sciences, who have confirmed the presence of SQPV.

This news is particularly sad given that we and many volunteers and landowners in the area have been working hard to control greys and the location of the infected animal is in what was considered to be a red squirrel stronghold.

How to spot SQPV

Symptoms include lethargic behaviour, weeping scabs around the eyes, nose, ears, feet and genitalia. It is almost always fatal within 10-15 days, but it is not a threat to humans as long as you take precautions when handling feeders and infected red squirrels.

Detailed instructions can be found on our website here

What can you do?

It is our responsibility to remind everyone of the protocol in such situations in order that we can mitigate against the spread of SQPV into other individuals.

• Take in all wildlife feeders for the next 4-6 weeks and thoroughly clean with an anti-viral solution

• Take photos and report sightings of sick or dead red squirrels to bordersredsquirrels@gmail.com

• Post dead red squirrel carcasses for post-mortem analysis

• Call the SSPCA on 03000 999999 if you spot a sick or lethargic red squirrel, and also notify us.

Please remain vigilant, especially if you live in or near Selkirk.