Red Squirrel and Wildcat Facing Possible  Extinction

THE red squirrel and Scottish wildcat seem doomed to inevitable extinction in Scotland despite concerted efforts to save them, according to a new report.

An investigation into the changing fortunes of Britain’s mammals by Oxford University’s Wildlife Conservation Research Unit found that an invasion of grey squirrels and outbreaks of a virus have meant conditions "continue to worsen" for the red squirrel. The report also found that extensive interbreeding between the Scottish wildcat and the domestic cat was threatening the wildcat’s existence. It described the wildcat as "probably on the brink of extinction".

Oxford University’s Professor David Macdonald, who co-wrote the report with colleague Dr Fran Tattersall, said: "This has been an extraordinary year for mammal conservation, with advances for creatures as varied as water voles, otters and bats. However, there are still huge problems ahead, such as the fate of the red squirrel and Scottish wildcat.

"It is heartening to see that the public is becoming more and more enthusiastic, and all the more so due to the activities of the Mammals Trust UK."

A spokesperson for Scottish Natural Heritage said: "Scotland is the last refuge in the UK for the red squirrel. There are still some strongholds, such as Grampian and the Far North. Grey squirrels have stronger stomachs and can eat nuts before they are ripe, which the red squirrels can’t do.

"We need to make forests with the right conditions to be habitable for both species. They can live together in forests with the right terms.

"We would also want to maintain a pure-bred Scottish wildcat if possible, but this will, without doubt, be a hard task."

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