King Charles III visited the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) in York to learn about efforts to protect native red squirrels by controlling the population of invasive grey squirrels. During his visit to the agency’s Biotech Campus, the monarch was briefed on innovative techniques that involve feeding grey squirrels hazelnut paste laced with contraceptives. These contraceptive-laced nuts are distributed using weighted feeders designed to be accessible only to the heavier grey squirrels, thereby sparing native species.

Introduced to the UK in the 19th century as ornamental animals, grey squirrels have outcompeted red squirrels for habitat and food and have spread diseases that have severely impacted the native species. As a result, red squirrels have been pushed to the brink of extinction in many areas across the country.

Dr. Julie Lane, head of APHA’s National Wildlife Management Centre, expressed gratitude for the King’s longstanding support of red squirrel conservation. She noted that combining contraceptive methods with traditional control techniques has proven more effective in reducing grey squirrel numbers. Dr. Lane emphasized the broader ecological impact of grey squirrels, highlighting the damage they inflict on native trees and biodiversity overall.

The King, who is patron of the Red Squirrel Survival Trust, has previously spoken fondly of red squirrels, describing them as “charming and intelligent creatures” and expressing great personal enjoyment in their presence at his Scottish residence. During the visit, the King examined large enclosures housing dozens of squirrels bred as part of conservation work, though the animals remained inside due to temperatures nearing 30 degrees Celsius.

Following the APHA visit, the King toured the Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Cancer Centre, where he met patients and staff. The facility recently underwent a £2.4 million redevelopment aimed at supporting thousands of cancer patients annually. Lou Rhodes, a patient with stage four secondary breast cancer who contributed to the centre’s design, described the King as personable and empathetic during their encounter. As patron of Macmillan Cancer Support, the King learned more about the centre’s services and its role in improving patient care.

The visits underscore the King’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and healthcare initiatives, reflecting areas he has supported throughout his public life.