It’s Squirrel Season: What to Do If You Find a Baby Squirrel

Each year, late summer brings an increase in calls about baby squirrels found on the ground. While it’s natural to want to help, the good news is that many of these babies are not actually orphaned and have the best chance of survival if they can be reunited with their mother.
Gray squirrels typically have two breeding seasons each year, and by this time of year many young squirrels are just beginning to explore outside the nest. Wind, storms, nest damage, or simple curiosity can sometimes lead to babies ending up on the ground. Fortunately, mother squirrels are excellent parents and will often return to retrieve their young if given the opportunity. 

When Does a Baby Squirrel Need Help?

A squirrel should be brought to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if it:

• The squirrel is cold, wet, shivering, or covered in bugs/ants
• There are visible injuries, bleeding, or deep puncture wounds
• The squirrel cries out constantly or is actively approaching humans
• The mother squirrel hasn’t returned for more than 4 hours
• The nest has been completely destroyed or blown out of a tree

Critical Cat Attack Warning

Even small wounds from cats can be life-threatening due to infection, so any squirrel that has had contact with a cat should receive professional care as soon as possible. 

What If the Baby Appears Healthy?

If the squirrel appears bright, alert, and uninjured, reunification should be attempted before bringing it into care.

1. Keep It Warm

The first step is to keep the baby warm. Place it in a small box or container with a gentle heat source underneath part of the box. Do not offer food or water. Improper feeding can do more harm than good and may even be fatal.

2. Place at Tree Base

Place the baby at the base of the tree where it was found or secure the open container to the tree nearby.

3. Step Back & Watch

Then step back and keep people, dogs, and cats away from the area. Mother squirrels are often watching from a distance and may return once they feel it is safe. 

What About Older Baby Squirrels?

Not every young squirrel needs rescuing. If a squirrel has a full, fluffy tail, is running, climbing, and avoiding people, it is likely a juvenile that is already independent. Young squirrels often spend time on the ground as they learn important survival skills and may simply be exploring their surroundings.

When to Call PRWC

If you are unsure whether a squirrel needs help, contact Peace River Wildlife Center before intervening. A quick phone call can help determine the best course of action and may prevent a healthy young squirrel from being removed from the care of its mother.Our goal is always to keep wild animals wild whenever possible. In many cases, the greatest act of compassion is helping a baby squirrel reunite with the parent that is already equipped to raise it.If you find a baby squirrel that appears injured, orphaned, or in distress, contact PRWC for guidance.

Contact PRWC Now

This article was originally published by Peace River Wildlife Center. Read it at prwildlife.org.