Bumper Crop Triggers Surge in UK's Invasive Grey Squirrel Population

According to a recent report, the UK is bracing for a surge in its invasive grey squirrel population in 2025. Experts predict that this year will be a "mast" year, meaning certain tree species like oaks, beeches, hazels, and chestnuts will produce an abundant crop of nuts and seeds. This abundant food supply is expected to support larger grey squirrel populations through the winter and provide more resources for breeding, leading to a significant increase in their numbers.

As the grey squirrel population grows, so too will the damage they cause to trees, particularly through bark stripping. This activity primarily occurs between April and October, when the larger and more aggressive grey squirrels are most active. The Royal Forestry Society estimates this damage could cost at least £1.1 billion over the next 40 years in England and Wales alone.

The surge in grey squirrels is also expected to push the endangered native red squirrels, which are around 26% smaller than the invasive greys, closer to the brink. Conservation groups like the European Squirrel Initiative are working to find humane and cost-effective solutions to control the grey squirrel population and protect the native reds.