Update: reports of dead squirrels in Callendar Park

Posts on social media said a dog walker had found “several dead squirrels and others which were dying. It looks as they had eaten some form of poison”.

Falkirk Community Trust, which oversees the parkland, a popular venue for local dog walkers and families, said it had investigated after spotting the posts.

A spokesperson said: “We are investigating some online media comments about squirrels in Callendar Park and have made contact with Falkirk Council’s Environmental Health Services and the Wildlife Officer from Police Scotland to advise us if they are aware of any particular issues with the local squirrel population.

“We have been able to keep the park open throughout the pandemic crisis to help with the general health and well-being of the local community and, given the increased use of the park in recent weeks, we continue to have staff on-site to maintain and patrol the park to dispose of any litter and empty bins on a daily basis.

“We would ask park visitors to look out for our squirrels so that they also remain healthy.”

However, The Scottish SPCA said it had not been alerted over this alleged incident.

Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: “We have not received any reports of squirrels being poisoned in Callendar Park in Falkirk.

“The use of any poison in an open space is illegal as there is no way of targeting a particular species and any wild or domestic animal could ingest it.

“Due to the danger to the public, if anyone finds a poison in a public place then they should phone Police Scotland on 101. If anyone believes that toxic substances are being deliberately used against animals then we would urge them to contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

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