Further investigation of a substance found throughout South Arm Park determined it wasn’t poison, according to the Richmond RCMP.
An investigation involving the Richmond police, Richmond Fire-Rescue and city staff started when Richmond residents reported dead and sick squirrels at the park on June 9.
At first, a small bit of the unknown substance came back positive for 1-Ocanethiol, a compound dangerous to people and animals.
Richmond Fire-Rescue discovered, however, there were no toxins present during further testing.
The unknown material found at the base of the trees was in fact residue from a red turpentine beetle infestation, which normally attacks mature pine trees.
Cpl. Adriana O’Malley, spokesperson for the Richmond RCMP, said the sick and dead squirrels “appear to be unconnected” to the substance found at the base of the trees.
“The squirrels are believed to have ingested poison, however, there is no evidence indicating it was intentional,” said O’Malley.
“Richmond RCMP and City of Richmond appreciate the level of community awareness shown in regards to these incidents and encourages the public to report any suspicious circumstances to police.”
