Greys do huge damage to reds

Madam, – I would like to think that if Natalia Doran lived in Scotland and not London she might hold a more informed and realistic view of the plight of our natural red squirrels and the threat posed to them and our ecosystem by the greys (Greys matters to the wilderness, Courier, January 9).

It is unfortunate grey squirrels were brought here from America.

It is well established that they bring a fatal disease to our native squirrels, eat their food and cause them to die out.

In addition, greys eat the eggs of our songbirds which are also in decline and they compete for their food as well.

Ms Doran says that there are plenty of reds elsewhere- well greys are now established in Italy, and our experience in Great Britain suggests it is only a matter of time before they spread throughout the rest of Europe at the expense of the red squirrel.

I fear that her suggestion of controlling greys by “peaceful means” indicates she really has no idea of the reality or gravity of the situation.

It is several years since I last enjoyed seeing red squirrels play in Balgay Park. I only see greys now.

Yes, greys can look cute. But in their natural habitat in America, not here in Britain. Alistair Montgomery. 8 Beechwood Terrace, Dundee.