Two possible cases of a virus deadly to red squirrels have been reported near Stirling – prompting fears the disease has spread northwards.

Residents of Bridge of Allan have been asked to take in garden feeders for a month following a possible squirrelpox outbreak in the area.

Members of the public have reported two instances of sick and lethargic-looking red squirrels near Mine Wood.

The disease is carried by grey squirrels but is deadly only to reds.

Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels (SSRS) said it was “concerned” at the news and has asked the public to submit photos of any sick or dead red squirrels they find.

The first known squirrelpox outbreak in Scotland occurred in 2007 near Lockerbie and since then the disease has arisen in various red squirrel populations across the south of the country.

The first death of a red squirrel north of Scotland’s central belt was confirmed in Dunfermline last spring following a post-mortem examination.

Symptoms include ulcers, scabs and weeping lesions on the face, paws and genitalia, all of which can prevent reds from eating, drinking or moving.

It is usually fatal within two weeks and an outbreak can cause a substantial reduction in local populations of reds.

The SSRS said the spread of squirrelpox poses a major threat to Scotland’s more northerly red squirrels.

Gail Turney from SSRS said: “We don’t know for certain what these squirrels may be suffering from, as red squirrels can be affected by a number of illnesses especially during the winter.

“But as a precaution, we are now asking all those living in Bridge of Allan to take immediate action and protect the local red population by taking in all wildlife feeders for the next month to help prevent any possible spread of disease.”

Although squirrelpox is not considered harmful to humans, anyone who sees a sick red squirrel is advised not to approach it, but instead contact the SSRS for advice.

Photos of sick or dead red squirrels should be submitted to squirrels@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk