How to Rehabilitate a Baby Squirrel 
There are many important things to remember when hand-rearing a squirrel, including contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These include providing supplemental heat, learning proper social “etiquette,” and providing more space to play and exercise. In this article, we’ll cover some of the important tips. Keep reading for more information. Hopefully this article will help you rehabilitate a baby squirrel.
Licensed rehabilitators are crucial to hand rearing a baby squirrel
If you are unsure how to handle a baby squirrel, it’s important to consult a Wildlife Rehabilitator. Although these professionals are vital, hand-rearing a baby squirrel can also be done by yourself with some basic knowledge. Licensed rehabilitators are available in every state. Before you hand-raise your baby squirrel, be sure to keep it out of reach of your children and pets.
Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately when you discover a baby squirrel. Call the Wildlife Rehabilitation Association of New Hampshire or your local Humane Society, who can refer you to the most qualified rehabilitator for your situation. When you bring your baby squirrel to the rehabilitator, it’s important to use appropriate cages, so that the animal is safe in its new home.
Providing supplemental heat
If you find a baby squirrel, provide supplemental heat to keep the squirrel warm. You can heat the squirrel with a ziplock bag filled with warm water, then cover it with a clean blanket. Be sure to not overheat the squirrel, since it will move around. If you are unable to provide supplemental heat to a squirrel, you can microwave an uncooked sock with hot water for a few minutes.
If you observe the baby squirrel in a quiet room, you can use a warm washcloth to soothe its natural suction reflex. Also, give it water and food more frequently than usual, since it has an instinct to lick itself clean. If the baby squirrel is unable to pee or drink enough water, take it to a vet for help. If you notice any unusual behavior in the baby squirrel, take it to a licensed rehabber.
Learning social “etiquette”
Learning social “etiquette” with baby squirrels can enrich your wildlife rehabilitation knowledge and make a fun personal project. Squirrels are mammals and belong to the order Rodentia, which has 1,600 species. These rodents make up 1/3 of all living mammal species. Their evolution dates back 50 million years ago, making them one of the oldest families of mammals. Squirrels are also known for their three types of jaw muscles that attach to their cheekbones.
First, remember that baby squirrels need interaction with other squirrels to bond with you and to learn social “etiquette” in the wild. If you’re a new parent, try to avoid making your new pet’s social interactions too formal. Baby squirrels should be raised in cages with other squirrels, where they will learn social “etiquette” and the language of being a squirrel. A zoo or wildlife hospital is an ideal place to start raising a baby squirrel.
Providing more space to play and exercise
Provide more space for a baby squirrel to play, sleep, and exercise. A good place to place a nesting box is outside the cage. This way, the baby can easily move to the cooler side when it gets too hot. Eventually, your squirrel will need a heating pad. Choose an animal-safe heating pad with no auto-shutoff feature. The heating pad can be set at a low temperature or left on continuously to keep your squirrel comfortable.
If a baby squirrel has been orphaned, you should give it a few days to adjust to its new surroundings. You should leave it alone with its mother for a grace period, and then take care to provide more space. When the baby squirrel starts to move around, the mother will relocate her young. If you have not cleaned the nest, you should consider repairing the nesting box so that your baby squirrel can remain safe.
Learning the “language” of being a squirrel
There are a few things that you can learn about squirrel communication. First of all, squirrels are highly intelligent and extremely communicative creatures. You may have even heard squirrels squawk in the trees! If you’re like me, you’ve been fascinated by their behavior, and you’d like to know what they are saying. If you want to learn more about squirrel communication, read on!
You may find it useful to visit a park with a large tree. If you live in an urban area, city parks will work. Otherwise, try a secluded park with lots of trees and little to no human presence. This way, the animal can get used to you before you approach them. Eventually, they may approach you in a playful manner and get used to your presence. Then, you can approach them again, and let them get used to you.
How long does it take for a baby squirrel to be fully rehabilitation?
Answer: It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months.
How often should I feed a baby squirrel?
Answer: You should feed them every 3-4 hours.
What type of milk should I give a baby squirrel?
Answer: You can give them cow’s milk goat’s milk or soy milk.
What kind of food can I feed a baby squirrel?
Answer: You can feed them squirrel chow insects nuts and fruits.
What should I do if the baby squirrel is not eating?
Answer: You can try offering them food that is higher in fat content or warmer in temperature.
How can I tell if a baby squirrel is dehydrated?
Answer: Dehydration in baby squirrels is indicated by wrinkled skin lethargy and a sunken appearance to the eyes.
How can I rehydrate a baby squirrel?
Answer: You can offer them water or an electrolyte solution to drink.
What should I do if a baby squirrel is cold?
Answer: You can warm them up gradually by placing them in a warm not hot environment.
What should I do if a baby squirrel is injured?
Answer: You can take them to a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for care.
What should I do with a baby squirrel once it is fully rehabilitated?
Answer: You should release them back into the wild.
How can I tell if a baby squirrel is sick?
Answer: Sickness in baby squirrels is indicated by lethargy runny eyes and nose and weight loss.
What should I do if a baby squirrel is sick?
Answer: You can take them to a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for care.
What are some common diseases that affect baby squirrels?
Answer: Some common diseases that affect baby squirrels include squirrel pox eye infections and pneumonia.
How can I prevent disease in a baby squirrel?
Answer: You can prevent disease by keeping their environment clean and keeping them away from other sick animals.
What is the best way to care for a baby squirrel?
Answer: The best way to care for a baby squirrel is by taking them to a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
