SCOUTING FOR SQUIRRELS
THE QUARRY
GREY SQUIRREL
Sciurus carolinensis
PEST STATUS: This invasive rodent damages trees, contributes to the decline of red squirrels, and preys on the eggs and chicks of songbirds.
HABITAT: Squirrels spend much of their time in the trees, although they will also forage on the ground.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Grey squirrel meat is surprisingly good to eat. Fishermen also use their tail fibres to tie fly-hooks.
The grey squirrel is a constant problem in British woodland. Ever since its introduction to our shores, this invasive rodent has caused widespread damage to trees and has had a detrimental impact on native wildlife. It is, however, ridiculous to try to vilify this menace of the woodland – Grey squirrels are, after all, simply being grey squirrels. The blame lies firmly with those who initially released them here and those who continue to tolerate their presence. The fact remains, though, that in order for wildlife to flourish in our woods, grey squirrels need to be removed – and it just happens that culling with an air rifle is one of the best ways to achieve that.
One of the larger woods where I shoot is absolutely plagued by grey squirrels. Much of it is overgrown with old trees and tangles of ivy, which offer an abundance of places for them to construct their
