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<p>The government will be introducing the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and
Permitting) Order to implement the EU Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Regulation (EU1143/2014).
Our enforcement strategy has been designed to combat the negative effects of invasive
non-native species that are listed as ‘of union concern’. Both grey squirrel (<em>Sciurus
carolinensis)</em> and muskrat (<em>Ondatra zibethicus)</em> are on this list.</p><p>
</p><p>The enforcement strategy will prohibit a number of actions relating to listed
species, including their importation, keeping, and release into the environment. These
restrictions are being put in place to manage the risk that these species pose to
the environment, economy and human health.</p><p> </p><p>The Forestry Commission leads
on policy and action on the grey squirrel in England, under the Grey Squirrel Action
Plan, which fulfils many of the functions of a management plan. This includes Countryside
Stewardship funding for landowners. Defra, in partnership with the United Kingdom
Squirrel Alliance (UKSA), is also providing funding for work by the Animal and Plant
Health Agency for the development of a fertility control method for grey squirrels.
This research, now in its third year, continues to show promise as one potentially
effective method to control grey squirrel numbers in the longer term.</p><p> </p><p>The
muskrat is not currently present in this country meaning we have no plans to develop
a management plan. The import of the muskrat is prohibited and it would be eradicated
if detected.</p>
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