Northern Red Squirrels

Squirrel Pox Virus

In sharp contrast, there are no known red squirrel populations that have developed immunity and the mortality rate for untreated infected squirrels in the wild appears to be 100%; most dying within 15 days of being infected. If caught early enough a vet may be able to treat the squirrel but success is rare.

We have included photographs to illustrate the true horror of the disease. Please be aware that you may find them distressful which is why we have included them as a separate page. Click here if you wish to view.

Transmission
The virus can spread through contact with the infected lesions or contaminated crusts. Most pox viruses are highly resistant to drying, which allows crusts to remain infectious for long periods of time. It is believed that the virus can be transferred by contaminated feeders, which is why red squirrel preservation organizations often recommend that feeders are disinfected daily. Traps and equipment used for catching greys in areas also occupied by red squirrels should also be disinfected.

Symptoms
In red squirrels, the virus causes skin ulcers, lesions, and scabs. It can also cause swelling and discharge (from the lesions/scabs) near the eyes, mouth, feet, and genitalia. Additionally, squirrels that fall victim to the disease often become increasingly lethargic as it progresses.

Infected animals are said to resemble rabbits with myxomatosis, in that they are sometimes found shivering and lethargic. Death normally follows and is a long and painful experience.

Origins
The origins of the squirrel pox virus are mostly unknown. The first confirmed incident was in East Anglia in the 1980s. It has since spread to Lancashire (confirmed in 1995-1996), Cumbria (spring 1998), Durham (1999), and Northumberland (1999). The squirrel pox virus is regarded as a significant factor in the decline of red squirrel populations in the UK.

Although the squirrel pox virus has only been recorded once in Scotland, it may be more prevalent due to lack of thorough testing.

It is thought to be similar to a case of disease seen in East Anglian red squirrels at the turn of the 20th Century.

The above article was put together with the help of Squirrel Action, Greenhead and Gilsland

For further information, the RSNE website has a comprehensive fact sheet.

If you find a dead red squirrel...
If you find a dead red squirrel please send it to:

Dr P Duff
Veterinary Laboratory Agency (VLA)
Merrythought
Calthwaite
Penrith
Cumbria
CA11 9RR

Instructions for packaging:

Wrap the squirrel in paper towel and put it in 3 plastic bags, each individually tied.
Place in a box (tissue box,small shoe box etc.), tape securely
Mark box PATHOLOGICAL SPECIMEN HANDLE WITH CARE

Please include a letter indicating as much detail as possible: date found, place, grid ref, condition, any other notable facts.
Include your email address if you require the PM Results. These will be sent directly to RSNE as well.

PLEASE POST THE PACKAGE ASAP USING 1ST CLASS POSTAGE.