FAQ: Grey squirrels are an invasive (non-native) species. What does this mean?
An invasive species is one which is not naturally found in a specified country of origin. Invasive species are usually found in other countries due to introductions from humans. Problems commonly arise with invasive species when their presence is detrimental to the survival of native species. It is often the case that invasive and native species cannot co-habit successfully because they occupy the same ecological niche. In this case, the more robust species can cause the extinction of the other.
Grey squirrels are classed as an invasive (non-native) species to the UK. Greys have been introduced to the UK at various locations since the 19th Century. They were first introduced in 1876 by the Victorians, who regarded the grey squirrel as an exotic species.
