Guernsey Residents Urged to Avoid Grey Squirrel Sighting Spot
Islanders in Guernsey have been asked not to gather at the location where a grey squirrel was recently spotted, as authorities work to safely trap the non-native animal.
The Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) reported that the squirrel “accidentally” arrived on the island via a vehicle. It was last seen on Monday evening near Bluchip in St Sampsons.
The States of Guernsey have assigned a local pest controller to capture the squirrel, emphasizing that public gatherings in the area could hinder the process.
“To retrieve the grey squirrel, the States Veterinary Officer has requested a pest controller to set up traps where it was last seen,” a spokesperson stated. “We kindly ask islanders not to gather, as this will make the job more difficult.”
As an invasive species, grey squirrels can pose risks to local wildlife and plant life. While no decision has been made about what will happen if the squirrel is captured, authorities are considering options to return it to a more suitable habitat.
The GSPCA expressed additional concerns about the animal’s welfare, noting that it may have been separated from its family.
“It could have had a family in the area it calls home and has been accidentally removed,” a spokesperson for the charity said. “Whenever possible, we aim to return wildlife to where they belong.”