How to Tame a Grey Squirrel
You’ve probably seen people in parks with a pet grey squirrel, but did you know it’s illegal to own a wild animal? The truth is that squirrels are not only a great way to get exercise and keep warm, but they are also wonderful pets! Here’s how to care for your new furry friend and get started on the path to taming your furry companion.
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Keeping a squirrel as a pet is illegal
It’s easy to see why keeping a squirrel as a pet is illegal. Squirrels are not domesticated like dogs and cats and need space and freedom. They also cannot be trained to be less destructive, unlike dogs. They are not as easy to find and keep as pets as a dog. If you’re interested in adopting a squirrel, be sure to do it through a sanctuary.
Squirrels are naturally wild animals. You cannot keep one as a pet in most parts of the world. Even though they are not considered a threat to people, they can damage property and cause a lot of trouble around the house. Squirrels have sharp claws and teeth, and can rip apart furniture, clothing, and even your human skin. In addition, squirrels are known to chew on things that look tasty, so you should keep your pet indoors.
Keeping a squirrel healthy
Squirrels love insects, and a supplemental diet can supplement the block food they eat. They may even chase crickets and mealworms to gain the vitamins and minerals they need. If you’re unsure of which foods to provide, consider giving your pet a variety of fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds. In addition to rodent blocks, you can feed your squirrel some fruits and vegetables. Just remember to use moderation when feeding fruit to your squirrel, and avoid any sugary treats.
In winter, the best way to provide warm shelter for your squirrel is to have a nesting box with large holes. Gray squirrels prefer natural materials to line their nests, and they usually line them with leaves, grass, and moss. You can purchase some squirrel bedding, too, but make sure not to use plastic or anything made in China, as these can be toxic to your squirrel. You should also keep the cage clean.
Providing a squirrel with a variety of food
A grey squirrel has a silver-grey coat, brownish face and pale underside, and distinctive bushy tail. It is larger than the red squirrel and has smaller ears without tufts. They are common in England and Wales, and are prized for their agility and cunning. As red squirrel numbers are declining, the Wildlife Trusts are working to protect the remaining species.
It is possible to tame a grey squirrel by providing it with a variety of food. Red squirrels can be difficult to tame because they are territorial. Females display aggressive behavior by raising their tails and ear tufts vertically. It may also growl or squeak upon capture. If you are willing to try to tame a squirrel, it will be more likely to eat from you.
Gray squirrels also need food on a daily basis. Peanuts are their favorite legume. Other legumes are excellent sources of plant protein. Peas, lentils, and beans are also good choices. It is best to avoid mixed squirrel feed. However, mixed squirrel food is often recommended. They may not like mixed foods. A variety of foods will help you tame your grey squirrel.
Keeping a squirrel warm
When keeping a gray squirrel at home, it’s important to remember that these creatures have normal body temperatures between ninety and one hundred degrees. If it’s cold, the species will hibernate, which means it’s in need of a lot of warmth. In a nest, they will line it with grass, moss, and leaves. You can also add some squirrel bedding to the box to keep the little fellow cozy, but make sure it has bedding that’s washable.
Once the squirrel is eight weeks old, it should be moved to a large, secure pre-release cage. The cage should be at least four feet by two feet in size and contain 1/2″ welded wire mesh. It should also contain a nest made of a wooden material. Make sure the nest is made of soft, non-ravelable material. Don’t use fabric softener on the bedding, as it can irritate the respiratory system of a baby squirrel. Changing bedding daily is necessary.
What is the best way to tame a grey squirrel?
The best way to tame a grey squirrel is by spending time with it and gradually gaining its trust.
How do you gain a grey squirrel’s trust?
You can gain a grey squirrel’s trust by offering it food water and shelter and spending time with it.
What kind of food do grey squirrels like?
Grey squirrels like a variety of foods including nuts seeds fruits and vegetables.
What is the best way to offer food to a grey squirrel?
The best way to offer food to a grey squirrel is by placing the food in a bowl and letting the squirrel eat at its own pace.
What is the best way to offer water to a grey squirrel?
The best way to offer water to a grey squirrel is by placing the water in a bowl and letting the squirrel drink at its own pace.
What is the best way to offer shelter to a grey squirrel?
The best way to offer shelter to a grey squirrel is by providing it with a nesting box or a small animal cage.
How often should you feed a grey squirrel?
You should feed a grey squirrel once a day.
How often should you offer water to a grey squirrel?
You should offer water to a grey squirrel once a day.
What is the best time of day to spend time with a grey squirrel?
The best time of day to spend time with a grey squirrel is in the early morning or late evening.
How long should you spend time with a grey squirrel each day?
You should spend at least 30 minutes each day with a grey squirrel.
What should you do if a grey squirrel bites you?
If a grey squirrel bites you you should wash the wound with soap and water.
What should you do if a grey squirrel scratches you?
If a grey squirrel scratches you you should wash the wound with soap and water.
What should you do if a grey squirrel jumps on you?
If a grey squirrel jumps on you you should gently push it off of you.
What should you do if a grey squirrel climbs on you?
If a grey squirrel climbs on you you should gently push it off of you.
What should you do if a grey squirrel seems scared of you?
If a grey squirrel seems scared of you you should back away slowly and give the squirrel time to adjust to your presence.

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.