Red squirrels are severely affected by pox, which is carried by grey squirrels, and usually kills them within two weeks
A red squirrel has been found on Merseyside suffering from a pox virus that can prove fatal to the population.
The animal in Blundellsands had an advanced case of squirrel pox and was put down by a local vet, the Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT) said.
A previous outbreak in 2008 almost wiped out red squirrels in Merseyside and West Lancashire.
The Trust is urging the public to become "squirrel aware" to prevent the spread of the disease.
It is the second reported case in Blundellsands this year.
Rachel Miller, Squirrel Project Officer at the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, said it is a fatal condition and "the squirrel usually dies within two weeks".
'Terrible disease'
She said the disease can look like myxomatosis in rabbits, with lesions developing around the eyes, mouth and paws.
"The squirrels find it difficult to eat and drink and therefore become very dehydrated and lethargic," she said. "It is a terrible disease."
The virus is carried by grey squirrels who do not suffer symptoms of the disease.
The last outbreak of squirrel pox in 2008 resulted in the red squirrel population plummeting by 80 per cent, but the population has since recovered.
The Trust's advice to members of the public is as follows:
Look out for sick red squirrels with signs of pox
Keep feeders clean using a pet safe disinfectant and remove any old food
Report sightings of grey squirrel
contact LWT for help with trapping and removing grey squirrels from gardens
