Warsaw’s City Guard’s Eco-Patrol unit aided six injured squirrels within three hours following Sunday’s strong winds in the city.
Squirrels Injured in Warsaw Storms
Sunday’s storms in Warsaw proved dangerous not only for people but also for wildlife. The Warsaw City Guard reported that an Eco-Patrol unit assisted six injured squirrels requiring securing and transport to veterinary care within a three-hour period.
First Rescues on Padewska Street
The first report came in shortly after 3:15 PM from Padewska Street, where a resident spotted an injured squirrel near her home. City Guard officers from vehicle 6103 secured the animal and transported it to a veterinary clinic in Gocław.
Upon arrival, they discovered another animal in need of assistance – a resident brought in a contused squirrel that was attracting the attention of birds of prey.
Further Interventions in Śródmieście and Łazienki Królewskie
After placing the second squirrel in a carrier, the Eco-Patrol unit was dispatched to Śródmieście and Łazienki Królewskie, where passersby found another injured squirrel and handed it over to park authorities.
Additional Squirrels Rescued on Ursynów
Two more injured squirrels were found near a dumpster on Polinezyjska Street in Ursynów. The Warsaw City Guard believes the animals’ injuries were likely caused by strong gusts of wind.
“Leave It, Don’t Kidnap” Campaign Reminder
The City Guard reminded the public about the ongoing season for the birth of small mammals and birds and the “Leave It, Don’t Kidnap” campaign. They advise against removing young animals from their natural environment unless there is a clear reason to do so.
When to Intervene
Human intervention is justified primarily when an animal has visible injuries or is in immediate danger, such as on a road. In the described cases, the Eco-Patrol’s actions were prompted by the squirrels’ observable injuries.
Fourth Edition of “Leave It, Don’t Kidnap” Campaign
Warsaw is currently running the fourth edition of the “Leave It, Don’t Kidnap” campaign, initiated by the Warsaw Zoo, “Ptasi Azyl” Center, Warsaw City Forests, and the City Guard. The campaign aims to educate residents to provide thoughtful assistance to young wild animals without causing further harm.
The city reports that the City Guard receives hundreds of reports each spring regarding allegedly abandoned birds and mammals, but in many cases, young animals remain under the care of their parents, who may be out of sight.
Reporting Injured or Threatened Animals
Residents of Warsaw can use city reporting channels if they encounter injured or threatened animals. Warsaw 19115 indicates that the City Guard and the “Ptasi Azyl” Protected Bird Rehabilitation Center respond to cases involving injured and trapped birds, while the City Forests and their Animal Rehabilitation Center assist with injured wild animals from within the city.