An urgent appeal has been issued after several red squirrels in Formby were reported with signs of the deadly squirrelpox virus.
Lancashire Wildlife Trust said it had received reports of three red squirrels showing symptoms of squirrelpox in Paradise Lane, Victoria Road, and Long Lane in the coastal town.
The conservation charity is now urging residents in Formby and surrounding areas to remove all wildlife feeders immediately to help reduce the risk of the disease spreading further.
Squirrelpox is particularly devastating for endangered red squirrels, with most infected animals dying within just two weeks.
In a statement, Lancashire Wildlife Trust said: "Sadly, we have received reports of three red squirrels showing signs of squirrel pox on Paradise Lane, Victoria Road, and Long Lane in Formby.
"Squirrel pox is devastating, with most infected reds succumbing to the illness within just two weeks."
The trust warned that feeding stations can become hotspots for infection because bodily fluids left behind by infected animals can spread the virus to others.
It added: "To help reduce the risk of further spread, we are urgently asking people in Formby and surrounding areas to remove all feeders immediately.
"Feeders can become disease hotspots, allowing dried saliva, urine, and other bodily fluids to spread infection between squirrels."
Residents who have bird baths or other wildlife equipment in their gardens are also being asked to disinfect them daily using products such as Virkon S or Safe4.
The charity's red squirrel team and volunteers are monitoring the situation and working to limit the spread of the disease.
Lancashire Wildlife Trust is also appealing to anybody taking part in its Trap Loan Scheme who is holding an unused trap to contact the organisation so it can be redeployed where it is needed most.
Formby is regarded as one of the country's most important strongholds for the endangered red squirrel population.
The town's woodlands, dunes, and coastal habitats attract visitors from across the region hoping to catch a glimpse of the iconic native species.
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The area, which is managed in part by the National Trust, is also known for its diverse wildlife, including natterjack toads and a range of coastal bird species.
The trust said local support would be crucial in helping protect Formby's red squirrels from the outbreak.
It added: "Our red squirrel team and volunteers are doing everything possible to monitor and limit the spread of this fatal disease, but we need your help."
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