Squirrel Application
Grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are invasive pests and are not native to the UK.
They were first introduced to the UK in the 1870’s from North America, as ornamental additions to high-class estates and country homes.
Around 30 separate introductions occurred until the 1930’s, when the damage they can cause was finally acknowledged and it became illegal to release grey squirrels into the wild.
The grey squirrel is recognised as being in the top worst 100 invasive pest species in the world by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
As their numbers have increased in the UK, so has the damage they cause between homes, businesses, health. Even to their counter part; the native red squirrel as they are responsible for the decline in native red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) numbers too.
Grey squirrels can cause extensive damage when they enter roof spaces of businesses and houses. They are known for stripping electric wires of insulation, tearing fibre glass up and destroying woodwork by gnawing and scratching. Grey squirrels can also contaminate water sources/tanks with dropping and urine as well as leaving the mess in roof/attic space.
