Management of grey squirrels

Research objectives

The overall aims of this research programme included:

• Investigating the impact of grey squirrels on woodlands and the reasons for bark stripping behaviour
• Identifying efficient control strategies, including new trapping methods, contraception and natural predation
• Promoting and supporting best practice management for the control of grey squirrels and their impacts.

Specific objectives included:

• Support evidence based policy development at national and regional levels
• Investigating the hypothesis that bark stripping behaviour by grey squirrels may be motivated by a calcium deficiency in their diet.
• Assessing impacts of the introduced grey squirrel on sustainable woodland management
• Investigate changes in numbers and behaviour of grey squirrels in response to pine martens
• Investigating novel and develop improved methods of population control, including reviewing the potential use of attractants
• Monitoring developments (worldwide) in the use of immuno-contraceptives for mammal population control, and consider their potential application to grey squirrel control (see reproductive inhibition in grey squirrels)
• Investigating alternative methods of damage limitation such as stand management, and the development of physical and chemical deterrents
• Providing practical advice to the forest industry and the general public and promote best practice by supporting training seminars and workshops on grey squirrel control for woodland owners and managers.