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Our native red squirrel has largely disappeared from its
natural range in the UK over the last 50 years. This is
mainly as a result of the spread of the introduced grey
squirrel which is better able to live in most broadleaved
and mixed woodland areas. In addition to displacing the
native species they frequently cause damage to woodlands
by stripping bark from the main stem and branches of trees.
Despite this they remain a popular feature in many woodland
parks and gardens and consequently it is not practical to
attempt to eradicate grey squirrels in areas where they
are already established.
Active trapping and other control methods do occur in
areas where there is significant bark stripping damage or
where the red squirrel is considered at risk of competition
or contracting the fatal pox virus Consequently, red squirrels
are protected under the law whereas it is illegal for anyone
to release a grey squirrel once captured.
In the Galapagos islands, where the local economy is almost
entirely dependant on the preservation of indigenous species
to attract tourists, there is a much more aggressive approach
to conservation.
Over the years the giant tortoise has become extinct on
a number of the smaller islands partly through overgrazing
by goats. This threat to the unique flora and fauna of this
archipelago has meant that hunters are encouraged through
financial reward to eradicate certain species including
goats, rats and even blackbirds!
Having recently returned from these fantastic islands I
can bear witness to the success of these conservation strategies
as evidenced by the tremendous opportunity to see very close
up a wide variety of unique animal and avian species.
Photos of my recent excursion will appear on our website............if
and when my luggage finally turns up!
Terry
Dunne BVMS, Cert SAO, MRCVS
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