The public is being consulted over a possible law change to allow red squirrels to be introduced to the wild in the Isle of Man under licence.

Red squirrels can’t be brought to the Island except under licence and any licenced keeper can’t allow them to roam free.

From time to time, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture receives approaches from local people wishing to establish a red squirrel population in the Island.

The pros and cons of a change in legislation are set out in a consultation that is open for the next six weeks – see www.gov.im/consultations. 

Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘There is strong affection for red squirrels, especially with numbers declining in the British Isles.

‘Having this iconic animal on the Island could be an added draw for visitors and show the Island plays its part in international conservation.

‘I look forward to hearing what people think of the proposal to help preserve this threatened species.’

Views should be returned to:

Red Squirrel Consultation
Directorate of Forestry, Amenity and Lands
Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture
Thie Slieau Whallian
Foxdale Road
St John’s
Isle of Man IM4 3AS

by Wednesday 27th April 2016.

Hard copies of the consultation are also available at DEFA.

Photo - Courtesy of The Telegraph.