The Welsh Government is being urged to take action on a petition calling for the development of a vaccine to protect red squirrels from the deadly squirrelpox virus. This petition, which has gained over 10,000 signatures, is a significant step towards addressing a critical issue in Welsh conservation efforts.
The campaign, led by conservationist Craig Shuttleworth, highlights the urgent need to protect red squirrels from the threat of squirrelpox, a disease carried by invasive grey squirrels. The petition emphasizes that progress on this issue has stagnated since the Senedd debated it in 2023, despite promises from ministers to explore vaccine development.
The petition's supporters, including Bangor University academics Jo Bradwell, Craig Shuttleworth, and Robert Benson, argue that vaccination could dramatically improve the survival chances of red squirrels. Their research, published in the Quarterly Journal of Forestry, reveals that grey squirrels can carry squirrelpox without severe illness, giving them an advantage over native red squirrels, who often die from the disease. Immunizing red squirrels would provide them with a better chance of survival when encountering grey squirrels and support future reintroduction projects.
Modern vaccine technology, according to the researchers, offers a viable solution. State-of-the-art vaccines can be produced at low cost, are non-infectious, and can be administered by trained conservation workers after capturing the squirrels in live traps. This approach is technically achievable and could be a game-changer for red squirrel conservation.
The petition also draws parallels to a successful vaccine against a deadly elephant virus, emphasizing the need for similar determination to protect one of Wales' beloved native mammals. The Petitions Committee will now decide whether to refer the petition for debate in the Senedd, which could lead to much-needed action on this critical conservation issue.
This petition is a powerful call to action, and the Welsh Government's response will be crucial in determining the future of red squirrel conservation in Wales. It highlights the importance of scientific research and innovative solutions in preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species.
