The simplest definition of an invasive species is that it does not occur naturally in the local habitat. This is because it is not indigenous or native to the area. Some of the worst pests, such as squirrels, are classified as an invasive species. The reason for this is simply because these pests have no natural predators. This, of course, leads to their population numbers exploding. As you can imagine, this causes a massive headache for pest controllers. Here are some key facts, and suggestions for how to eliminate them.
How did grey squirrels become such a problem?
The grey squirrel holds top place for a difficult to manage invasive species in the UK. Many people don’t realise that these squirrels don’t originally come from Britain at all. This is probably because they have been around for such a long time. Grey squirrels are actually native to North America.
In the 20th century they were introduced to places like the UK, Ireland, Italy, and Australia. With no natural predators, these squirrels soon took over, and displaced the native red squirrel population. The biggest issue here is when they compete for food with red squirrels. This eventually drives red squirrels out of the area altogether.
Another huge problem with grey squirrels is that they carry something known as squirrel pox. The issue is that grey squirrels have built up an immunity to this virus. Unfortunately, red squirrels have not. This means that grey squirrels easily transmit the virus, which is fatal to red squirrels.
How to deal with these hardy invasive species
Getting rid of these pests is almost impossible and requires a targeted strategy on the part of the professionals. This includes the use of highly specialised squirrel control methods. The government may also rely on public awareness campaigns to protect native species like the red squirrel.
Something else that has worked fairly well is changing factors in the environment in which this pest species lives. For example, removing their source of food and other things squirrels love in the surrounding area. Erecting physical barriers can also help to control these pests.
When it comes to invasive species in general, something else we need to think about today is climate change. This presents a wider problem for pest control. You see, as the climate changes, more species are migrating into new areas. When this happens, they quickly displace native population. With the climate quickly eroding, non-native species are likely to become a bigger and bigger problem.