The project's aim is to help protect ecosystems and native red squirrel populations.
The grey squirrel - "a widespread and extremely numerous invasive animal" according to broadcaster and naturalist Chris Packham
Grey squirrels are significantly larger and stronger than reds and carry a squirrel pox virus that is deadly to reds but to which they are immune. The drug is not permanent, and further tests are being carried out to find a dose that has a long-lasting effect and is safe to use in the wild. The plan is to bait the hoppers with pots of a hazelnut paste greys find "irresistible" and which will be laced with the new contraceptive.
"It could even eradicate them from some areas, provided you can do a coordinated control over an area, so they don't start to re-immigrate", Dr Massei says.
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