**UK Households Urged to Watch for Grey Squirrels as Concerns Rise Over Damage and Wildlife Threats**
British homeowners are being called to vigilance following renewed warnings about the presence and activities of grey squirrels in gardens and urban spaces. Despite their cute and lively appearance, experts warn that grey squirrels are not native to the UK and may present multiple risks, ranging from garden destruction to harm being caused to local birdlife and private property.
The grey squirrel, originally introduced from North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, has firmly established itself across much of the country. In doing so, it has outcompeted the indigenous red squirrel, which is now largely confined to certain parts of the UK. Conservationists blame the grey squirrel for transmitting the deadly squirrelpox virus, which is often fatal for red squirrels but does not affect their grey counterparts. As a result, much of the red squirrel population has become localised, teetering on the edge of extinction in some regions.
Recent surveys conducted by the Forestry Commission and analysed by organisations such as British Red Squirrel have painted a concerning picture. Widespread woodland damage is attributed to the growing grey squirrel population, with every observed sycamore stand reportedly affected, along with significant damage to beech, oak and sweet chestnut trees. This devastation extends into gardens, where grey squirrels have been found to consume bird eggs and chicks, leading to a recorded decrease in woodland bird fledging rates.
In addition to their negative impact on wildlife, these animals threaten crops and private property. Horticultural experts highlight that grey squirrels frequently raid maize and fruit crops, disrupt market gardens and destroy bulbs, seeds and young tree nuts. More troubling for some residents is their tendency to infiltrate roof spaces, where they can cause substantial damage by gnawing through timbers, insulation, electrical wiring and even plumbing. Such damage not only has costly implications for homeowners, but in extreme cases, can also pose safety hazards.
The British Red Squirrel organisation, alongside other conservation entities, is urging the public to be proactive. Residents are encouraged to determine whether they live in areas supporting red squirrels or those involved in reintroduction projects. If so, they should swiftly contact local conservation groups. In regions dominated solely by grey squirrels, people are advised to refer to local grey control schemes and consider joining or supporting community initiatives aimed at humanely controlling grey populations.
Some practical measures for deterring grey squirrels from gardens include the use of chilli powder—an irritant disliked by both red and grey varieties. However, conservationists advise that these methods should be used with care to avoid any unwanted impact on the already endangered red species. The movement towards community-based action reflects increasing awareness that managing invasive species requires concerted effort and coordination.
Grey squirrels’ penchant for entering lofts and attics has also prompted professional property specialists such as Gaffsy to offer advice. They recommend that if homeowners suspect an infestation, environmental health authorities should be contacted to address the matter safely. Additionally, routine maintenance to repair damaged roofs—such as replacing compromised eaves and soffits—alongside pruning nearby tree branches and installing robust wire mesh, is key to preventing further incursions.
Beyond wildlife and ecological implications, these latest warnings highlight the nuanced relationship between urban residents and non-native species. As much-loved as grey squirrels are by many, their growing numbers and destructive habits underline the challenge of balancing conservation priorities with co-existing alongside charismatic wildlife. Neutral observers note that while draconian measures are unlikely to gain wide support, informed community participation and responsible management may offer the best prospects for protecting both endangered native species and cherished green spaces.
For now, residents across the UK are being advised to remain vigilant, check their properties regularly for signs of damage and disturbance, and seek advice from conservation agencies or local authorities should any concerns arise. With the future of Britain’s remaining red squirrels hanging in the balance and ongoing risks to homes and gardens, the public’s role in curbing the advance of grey squirrels is proving more crucial than ever.