About Us

London Squirrels is a fully licensed, volunteer-run sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and lifelong care of grey squirrels. We are devoted to protecting and supporting this often misunderstood and unfairly vilified species, providing a safe, enriched environment where every squirrel can live a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life. 

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Since 2019, it has been illegal to release  grey squirrels back into the wild under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019. This means rescued squirrels must now remain in human care for the rest of their natural lives — which can be up to 22 years. London Squirrels exists to provide that lifelong care, safety, and stability. 

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Our adult and baby squirrels receive the highest standard of nutrition and round-the-clock care. Orphaned babies are hand-reared on specialist formula day and night, while all squirrels benefit from 24-hour veterinary support, medication when needed, quality food, clean bedding, and secure fully enriched housing. 

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We aim to recreate each squirrel’s natural environment as closely as possible. Our large enclosures receive plenty of natural sunlight and are filled with branches to climb, plants and twigs to gnaw, tree houses for sleeping, and enrichment toys for play and stimulation. Wherever suitable, squirrels are paired so they can socialise, bond, and express their natural behaviours together. 

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We operate under a full licence from Natural England, ensuring every squirrel in our care is protected under strict legal and welfare standards.

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Natural England licence reference: 

2025-100038-SPM-MMS