Non-native grey squirrel on the loose in Guernsey

Grey squirrels are not indigenous to Guernsey

An animal charity has received a report that a grey squirrel has "accidentally" found its way to Guernsey.

The Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) said it came to the island "via a vehicle" and it was seen near Bluchip in St Sampsons on Monday evening.

Grey squirrels are an invasive non-native species and the GSPCA says the States have been made aware of the arrival.

The charity said the squirrel seemed "very healthy and has run off".

Squirrel predators such as foxes and badgers do not live on the island, and there are also no deer.

Steve Byrne, GSPCA manager, said: "Trying to catch a healthy squirrel will be very challenging until we know the area it settles in. But all reports are much appreciated and we will release more information when we know.

"We are about to enter spring and we are already seeing lots of young animals needing our care, from baby birds to baby bunnies."