Wildlife experts have stated that humans might be proving to be a threat for red squirrels as they might be picking up human bacteria from animal lovers who leave food out for them.

This bacteria that is naturally present in humans might be actually killing these squirrels. The bacteria are being seen in dead squirrels displaying lesions and infections.

Scientists however remain unclear about the bacteria being the actual reason for squirrel deaths.

Britain’s Isle of Wight is facing a huge problem as there are no greay squirrels here and residents commonly leave food out for red squirrels.

In 2007 and 2008, the bacteria, staphylococcus aureus (staph A), was traced in 11 dead squirrels.

Vic Simpson, of the private Wildlife Veterinary Investigation Centre in Cornwall, has submitted the report and said, "We either have a totally new squirrel disease or it is possible that squirrels are picking up this human bacteria. It may be that squirrels that already have immune problems are more susceptible.”

Experts state that this is proving to be a grave problem as squirrels might just disappear if it contibues.