About us
Urban Squirrels is a licensed London-based wildlife rescue unit specialising in grey squirrels: rescue, advice, and advocacy. We take in as many orphaned babies and injured adults as our facilities allow, and when we cannot admit an animal we provide detailed telephone advice to help callers find safe alternatives. Our helpline also supports the public with humane conflict resolution and concerns about grey squirrels being harmed by neighbours or local authorities.
Alongside rescue work, we campaign to improve the grey squirrel’s unfairly negative reputation. Through social media, public events, writing, and education, we address myths about grey squirrels’ ecological impact and challenge the simplistic “native good, alien bad” narrative that fuels persecution. Our current campaign focus is the Invasive Alien Species Order 2019, which makes it illegal for rescue centres to release rehabilitated grey squirrels. This law has devastated squirrel rescue in the UK: centres are full, animals are being turned away or euthanised, and compassionate members of the public have nowhere to turn. Urban Squirrels is actively working to secure an exemption for wildlife rehabilitation.
Where your donations help: £25 provides specialist formula for a litter of baby squirrels for a week. £65 covers a veterinary consultation for an injured squirrel. £100 helps fund heating, housing, and cleaning supplies for the animals in our care.
Every pound directly supports hands-on rescue and life-saving advocacy.
🐿️ HOW URBAN SQUIRRELS BEGAN
Urban Squirrels was founded by Natalia Doran and her son Jonny, a young adult with severe autism who wanted to work with animals. Jonny earned a Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care but is unable to work outside the home, so we built a rescue unit around what he could do — providing specialised care for grey squirrels. It began as a family effort and has grown into a respected rescue and advocacy organisation.
🐿️ WHY GREY SQUIRRELS?
Grey squirrels are the most visible wild mammals for Londoners and other urban residents. They form strong bonds with people, offering companionship to many — including those who may feel isolated. During lockdown, countless individuals told us their local squirrels were their “lockdown buddies.” Some even credit these relationships with supporting their mental health.
When something happens to these beloved animals, the public expects a rescue option. Urban Squirrels is proud to provide that pathway.
🐿️ ARE GREY SQUIRRELS NON-NATIVE?
Grey squirrels were introduced roughly 150 years ago and have since become a well-established part of the British ecosystem. While some dislike them because they are “non-native,” many appreciate their intelligence, agility, and engaging personalities. Our work includes challenging myths and promoting a fair, evidence-based view of their ecological role.
🐿️ MYTHS ABOUT RED SQUIRRELS AND TREE DAMAGE
Popular claims that grey squirrels “wipe out” red squirrels or destroy woodlands are urban myths. We spend significant time debunking misinformation and offering scientifically grounded explanations. More resources and references can be found on our website: 👉 https://www.urbansquirrels.co.uk
🐿️ WHAT CARE DO RESCUED SQUIRRELS NEED?
Caring for squirrels is rewarding but demanding.
Babies require feeding every four hours, day and night.
Injured animals need veterinary expertise — we are fortunate to have a wildlife-friendly vet nearby.
A high number of animals means constant cleaning and maintenance.
Normally we manage this through a wonderful network of volunteers and supporters — but due to the 2019 legislation, the entire sector is under strain as never before.
