Croatian Squirrels in Poreč - Istria

The Poreč squirrels are cherished forest dwellers, affectionately regarded as our 'forest pets'. These engaging creatures are nurtured and socialized in "Squirrel Forest" or "Squirrel Town", located at the entrance to Poreč, within the scenic bounds of the Galijot and Bellevue tourist resorts in the Plava Laguna. They are accompanied by an ensemble of forest friends, including tit birds, finches, woodpeckers, robins, turtledoves, and pigeons.


Since January 2024, we have initiated the "Lend a Hand to Nature" project, dedicated to the repopulation of red squirrels in Poreč, where there used to be many of them, but now they are almost gone. This project includes the forest between the Hospital and the Center for Social Welfare, Bakina šumica, Naftaplin, and Pical.

Our project is greatly supported by key partners including the City of Poreč and Valamar Riviera d.d. We also have expert collaboration and support from the Zagreb Zoo, along with various other esteemed institutions such as Natura Histrica, Healthy City of Poreč, Poreč Veterinary Hospital, and the Tourist Board of the City of Poreč.

Interview: A German couple who keep returning to Galijot because of the squirrels

This couple has been returning for several years now, specifically because of the squirrels, and in our conversation, they shared their love for these charming creatures.

No More Bim, Bum, or Bam

Our hearts break with pain because we genuinely looked forward to seeing our trio joyfully scampering through the branches of trees in nature, in the open! That was the life we wanted for them!

Farewell to Coccolina, Our Beloved Squirrel

Last night, we lost another special soul, my beloved Coccolina. She was not just another squirrel; she was a part of our forest family, one of our darlings, the penultimate daughter of Koki, born in the spring of 2021.

Goodbye, Dear Blackie: A Journey Through Loss and Love for Our Animal Companions

Her story, our story, reminds me that despite the loss, the love we share with our animal friends remains, lighting the way through sorrow toward new days filled with memories, love, and gratitude.

Beyond the Rainbow: The Final Playground of Little Squirrel Bam

As Bim and Bum continue without their sister, your story will remain a reminder of the fragility of life and the depth of the bonds we form, regardless of species.

The Story of Tooth Fairy (Zubi): A Very Special Squirrel from Poreč

Our Tooth Fairy crossed the rainbow bridge on January 19, 2023, leaving us with a story of sorrow, but also of courage, resilience, and incredible spirit. Her short life reminds us of the importance of love, care, and support even in the hardest times.

Reasons Why We Sent Bim, Bum, and Bam to Zagreb

This is a question some of our social media followers have asked recently, so here is the briefest possible answer.

Poreč Squirrels Bim, Bum, and Bam Arrive at Their New Enclosure in the Zagreb Zoo

We are grateful to the team of experts at the Zagreb Zoo who accommodated us, so Bim, Bum, and Bam now have a nice place to spend the winter, a large area with plenty of greenery where they can continue to grow and develop undisturbed.

Dear Squirrel and Nature Lovers, We Need Your Help…

We are reaching out to request your support in building squirrel houses. Over the past few months, several summer storms have caused the loss of many trees, which served as nesting sites for squirrels, leaving them homeless.

Everyone Loves the Squirrels of Poreč, Including the Poreč Firefighters

Every year, the Public Fire Department of Poreč provides invaluable support in maintaining water stations for birds, squirrels, and other small animals that share our oasis in the area of Hotel Galijot in Plava Laguna.

Donations for Squirrels

Your donation will be used to create safer habitats, ensure sufficient food and water, and educate the public about the importance of preserving the natural environment for squirrels and other wildlife.

Meet Three Very Special Baby Squirrels from Poreč: Bim, Bum, and Bam!

Baby squirrels rescued from dehydration and starvation after likely losing their mother a few days ago in the forest near the Home for the Elderly in Poreč.

Koki Balboa - King of the Squirrel Forest

He got the nickname Balboa because he constantly fought with other squirrels defending his territory, and several times he was injured by crows and other animals.

Poreč Veterinarians Eagerly Help Our Furry Friends

The staff of the veterinary hospital and two clinics deserve special recognition for their selfless contributions and willingness to help save the lives of these small creatures.

Poreč Squirrels in the Media

The Poreč squirrels have become a true media sensation, capturing newspaper headlines and media attention with their charming appearances and incredible adventures.

Call for Volunteering to Care for Poreč Squirrels

This initiative not only helps these charming creatures in their natural habitat but also educates the local community on the importance of coexisting with wildlife.

Poreč Squirrels on Social Media

Follow these incredible creatures in their daily adventures and enchanting moments. The Poreč squirrels have taken social media by storm across Croatia and beyond.

Valuable Assistance from Horticulture Workers and Poreč Firefighters

We are grateful for the understanding and assistance of former director Željka Despot and current director Marko Fabris, who have recognized our efforts in caring for sick and injured squirrels.

© Health Center Harmony 2006-2024

NOTE: All information provided on this page is educational. For specific needs concerning squirrels, please consult a veterinarian or a wildlife protection center.

95% of the photos are taken by Conny & Dražen, with the remaining images by Graziella Mureta and Geert Weggen and licensed photos from Pixabay, Stock, and Shutterstock.