A virus outbreak affecting red squirrels in a residential area has been announced.

Ponteland Town Council has issued a warning over concerns over an outbreak of Squirrel Pox Virus (SQPV) in Darras Hall, Ponteland.

The town council is advising residents to keep a 'close look out' for any poorly looking red squirrels and to take down any feeders that you can’t see from your window.

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Other advice includes always regularly clean your feeders to avoid transmission as it is believed that the virus can survive on surfaces for some time.

You can report any poorly or lethargic squirrels to Ponteland and District Red Squirrel Group tel: 07878 061880 or email pontelandredsquirrels@yahoo.co.uk or find us on Facebook.