Suffering Squirrel Highlights the Agony of Catapult Victims

We regret having to share this disturbing video and photo, but it is essential to raise awareness about the cruel reality of catapult attacks on animals, a problem that animal rescue organisations see far too often. Every day, across the country, animals are being targeted in parks by groups of youths who face little to no consequences, even when caught in the act.

A squirrel was reported today to have been shot by two young boys with a catapult. Although a volunteer responded immediately, the squirrel had already climbed higher into a tree by the time they arrived, making rescue impossible. Efforts will continue to capture the animal, but the reality is that this creature is now suffering, possibly in agony. With it being squirrel breeding season, it’s also possible that this squirrel has young to care for.

Imagine going about your day, only to suddenly be struck with a searing pain in your body. Someone has intentionally hurt you for their own amusement, enjoying the pain they’ve inflicted on you—someone who is unable to defend themselves. What kind of adults will these children grow into if this behaviour continues unchecked? Is this the kind of community we want to share with people who find entertainment in the suffering of helpless animals? Animal cruelty for amusement has no place in a civilised society, so why is so little being done to stop it?

This is not an isolated incident. At this same park, reports of youths targeting animals with catapults surface at least once a week. Most recently, two wood pigeons were critically injured. Witnesses to these attacks are often present, and the youths involved are known by local residents, who are familiar with their faces and even their names. The projectiles used—ball bearings, nuts, bolts, and batteries—cause catastrophic damage to the small bodies of these animals. Some victims die outright, while others suffer horrific injuries like shattered bones or exploded eyes. In some cases, immediate rescue is possible; in others, like this squirrel, the animals may suffer in silence for days or even weeks without being found.

Over the years, countless police reports have been filed by volunteers and concerned members of the public, yet nothing changes. These same individuals continue their attacks, causing harm and distress without facing any significant consequences. The situation is getting worse, and the animals continue to suffer.

We understand that this post is distressing, but it reflects the reality that volunteers, the local community, and animal rescue organisations are grappling with. The frustration, anger, and heartbreak we feel at these ongoing attacks are immeasurable. We are outraged that this cruelty is allowed to continue unchecked.

This must stop.

How You Can Help:

Write to your local councillor and MP: Express your concern and demand action. A draft email is available here.

Sign and share the petition: Help us gather support for a change in how these crimes are handled.

Our hope is that we can soon share an update about the rescue of this squirrel, but this individual animal represents just one of countless victims. Only by taking animal cruelty seriously and implementing substantial consequences for those responsible can we hope to prevent these attacks from happening again and again.