Are foreign squirrels devastating Japan?
The Yomiuri Shinbun has reported that a new type of foreign criminal is causing damage in Japan:
They might look cute, but feral Taiwanese squirrels have been damaging an increasing number of trees in southern Yokohama this year, according to authorities.
In a number of nature preserves and parks, the squirrels have peeled the bark off the trunks and branches of Japanese zelkova, Japanese hackberry, cornels and other trees, revealing the trees’ white tissue underneath.
Grey-bellied squirrels that originated in Taiwan and have turned feral are being blamed for the damage in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is said to be the northernmost habitat for the species.
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Observers say the authorities should take measures in broader areas as the squirrels’ habitat is expanding and they may threat that of Japanese squirrels.
Some municipaltities have taken measures to halt the spread of the foreign squirrels, but most are doing very little. Some are warning those in power to take action now, before it’s too late. Will there ever be an end to this expanding wave of invaders?
