Funding Boost for Formby's Red Squirrel Conservation Efforts

A £300,000 grant has been awarded to support the conservation of the vulnerable red squirrel population in Formby, Merseyside, which is threatened by a fatal virus. This funding comes in response to a recent outbreak of squirrel pox along the Sefton coastline, particularly affecting one of England's largest remaining red squirrel populations.

The Lancashire Wildlife Trust secured the funding from the Natural England Species Recovery Programme to implement essential conservation measures. The last significant outbreak in 2008 resulted in an estimated 80% decline in the local red squirrel population. Squirrel pox, which is transmitted by grey squirrels, causes severe health issues and is often fatal within two weeks.

Experts have noted that red squirrels have faced a drastic population decline over the past century, primarily due to competition with grey squirrels and disease. Currently, there are about 287,000 red squirrels left in Britain, with a significant majority residing in Scotland. The new funding will enhance grey squirrel management and support community initiatives aimed at increasing food sources for red squirrels.