People are reporting seeing grey squirrels in and around Natland’s gardens and bird feeders. As cute and athletic as they might seem, did you know that:
• The law designates them as vermin.
• They take birds’ eggs and fledglings.
• Food from bird tables and feeders encourages grey squirrels to multiply and spread, quickly presenting a threat to our native red squirrels by spreading disease or out-competing for food.
• Squirrel-proof bird feeders deter grey squirrels but still allow your garden birds to feed.
If grey squirrels are visiting your bird feeders and you are not in a position to trap them, using squirrel-proof feeders helps to save our red squirrels. We know that residents, as well as visitors staying in self-catering accommodation, like to feed the birds. Making this small change to squirrel-proof feeders helps them but also protects Cumbria’s red squirrels and increases your chances of seeing red squirrels back in the village.
Reasonably priced squirrel-proof feeders are available at local garden centres and online. For more advice on deterring grey squirrels from your garden and other ways you can support Westmorland Red Squirrels please visit our website at www.westmorlandredsquirrels.org.uk.
Bob Cartwright Trustee and Deputy Chair, Westmorland Red Squirrels
