Lack of genetic diversity among red squirrels poses disease threat, study finds

The researchers analysed the entire genetic code of 106 red squirrels (Danny Lawson/PA) - (PA Wire)

Worryingly low levels of genetic diversity make Scotland’s red squirrels especially vulnerable to disease, a study has shown.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh said this could explain why the mammals are so slow to develop resistance to the squirrelpox virus, which is carried by non-native grey squirrels and fatal to reds.