A DISEASE that can 'devastate' red squirrel populations has been detected in Cumbria. 

A Cumbria Wildlife Trust ranger found a red squirrel that had died from squirrel pox in Neaum Crag holiday park in Ambleside.

Although grey squirrels have developed resistance to the disease, it is usually fatal to native red squirrels. 

A spokesperson from Cumbria Wildlife Trust said: "This is a horrendous disease - if our reds catch it, they barely stand a chance."

The trust called it a 'very significant factor' in the national decline of the red squirrel population.

Red squirrels normally get it through contact with greys or a contaminated feeder. 

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs provided further information on the disease. Infection with the virus in red squirrels results in lesions in the skin, particularly around the lips, eyes and on the chin and muzzle. However, these symptoms could also be associated with other diseases. 

News and Star: A photo the trust published of a red squirrel that had died from the diseaseA photo the trust published of a red squirrel that had died from the disease (Image: Cumbria Wildlife Trust)

The department said that it is aware of outbreaks in Cumbria and Northumberland this year and requested members of the public and organisations to report any incidents of mass mortality in wildlife (counted as two or more dead animals together) to their local APHA Veterinary Investigation Centre or red squirrel group. 

There is no risk to public health. 

Geoff Hetherington, the chairman of Westmorland Red Squirrels, said: "This is the ongoing problem we have got with increasing numbers of grey squirrels, with people feeding greys. Unfortunately, people don't protect their bird feeders."

Mr Hetherington said bird feeders in areas with red and grey populations should be made squirrel-proof to reduce the chance of contact between the two species. However, many people enjoy grey squirrels coming into their gardens, he said. 

"The general public needs to be a bit more aware of it. We are the last place for most of the reds of England."

He said that it is a 'devastating' disease for red squirrel populations.

He said that it is hard work for the rangers and volunteers to keep an area disease-free and that there will continue to be sporadic outbreaks if people do not protect their feeders.