Greys winning battle to survive

Sir, – I read with interest the article by Rob McLaren regarding squirrels in a recent edition of The Courier (“Concern as grey squirrels spotted in key red squirrel conservation area in the Mearns”, Courier, August 9).

If it wasn’t for the prospect of animals being killed, the article would strike a rather ridiculous note.

The tone is that of a national emergency.

The reality, however, is that one species of squirrel might replace another.

Neither species is endangered.

They perform the same function within the ecosystem.

Red squirrels were suited to the habitat the way it was several hundred years ago.

Grey squirrels are suited to the habitat the way it is now, post deforestation.

Perhaps we should be grateful that at least one species is adaptable enough for our ecological mess, not declare war on animals that are simply winning the game of the survival of the fittest.

Furthermore, the replacement narrative is in itself scientifically questionable.

It is worth noting that where the habitat is still suitable for red squirrels, for example in Craigvinean Forest, they coexist with their grey cousins, as documented in Bryce et al, “Can niche use in red and grey squirrels offer clues for their apparent coexistence?”, Journal of Applied Ecology, 2002. Natalia Doran. Urban Squirrels, 55 Lavertsoke Gardens, London.