Exotic squirrels in Argentina: impacts on biodiversity and conservation of native species

GUICHÓN ML

Varese

Conferencia; Conferencia en la Universidad Insubria, Varese, Italia; 2011

Several species of squirrels have been introduced into non-indigenous regions for their ornamental value, as game animals, for their fur, or for the pet-trade. The Asiatic Red-Bellied Squirrel Callosciurus erythraeus is the first known introduction of a squirrel into South America. We are studying various aspects of the ecology of Red Bellied Squirrel in Argentina, the characteristics of the recipient environment that facilitate its invasion, and its impact on biodiversity, productive systems and health issues. Since its introduction in 1970 this species has achieved the status of an established invasion of major proportions. Association with humans already stands amongst the major determinants of its invasion success. Establishment is facilitated by habitat modification in the Pampas, where woodland patches of exotic trees in rural and urban areas provide suitable habitat for its arboreal habits. Spread is accelerated by translocation and illegal trade, followed by escape or release into the wild. Being an attractive animal is not only their pathway for spread but also their shield against control actions. Prevention of spread into subtropical forests of Argentina, where the native squirrels Sciurus aestuans and S. ignitus already face other threats, is a priority. However, government agencies are reluctant to implement control actions that will not be supported by some social sectors and they are also uninterested in prevention if evident damages and threats are demonstrated. Thus even if basic management guidelines state the necessity of a rapid response when detecting new nuclei of the invasive species with relatively few squirrels in restricted areas, public relation campaigns and communication to politicians will become a major issue particularly challenging when dealing with charismatic species.