Finding a baby squirrel can tug at your heartstrings, but knowing how to handle the situation is crucial for its survival. Wildlife rescue is delicate, and intervening without proper knowledge can do more harm than good. This guide will walk you through the steps to take if you find a baby squirrel, ensuring you make the best decision for its well-being. First and foremost, observe the squirrel from a distance. Is it visibly injured? Are there signs of the mother nearby? Squirrels are dedicated mothers, and they often have multiple nests. If the baby seems healthy and uninjured, give the mother a chance to retrieve it. This might involve waiting a few hours, or even overnight, keeping a close watch from a safe distance. Remember, human intervention should always be the last resort. Before you approach, equip yourself with gloves to minimize the transfer of human scent, which could deter the mother squirrel. If the baby is in immediate danger, such as in a road or exposed to predators, gently move it to a safer spot nearby, ideally at the base of the tree it may have fallen from. Place it in a cardboard box lined with soft cloth or paper towels to provide warmth and comfort while waiting for the mother. Keep a watchful eye for any signs of the mother returning. She may cautiously approach, call out to her baby, and eventually retrieve it, carrying it back to the nest. If, after a reasonable amount of time (several hours to overnight), the mother doesn't return, or if the baby is clearly injured or in distress, it's time to consider wildlife rescue options.

Assessing the Situation: Is Rescue Necessary?

Before jumping into action, take a moment to carefully assess the situation. Determining whether a baby squirrel truly needs rescuing is paramount. It's easy to assume the worst when you see a tiny creature alone, but mother squirrels are incredibly resourceful and often have a plan. Begin by observing the baby squirrel from a distance. Use binoculars if necessary to get a clear view without disturbing it. Look for any obvious signs of injury, such as open wounds, broken limbs, or difficulty moving. Is the squirrel alert and responsive, or does it seem weak and lethargic? A healthy baby squirrel will typically be vocal and active, whereas an injured or sick one may be quiet and withdrawn. Next, consider the immediate environment. Is the squirrel in a dangerous location, like a busy road, exposed to predators, or in extreme weather conditions? If so, immediate intervention may be necessary to ensure its safety. However, if the squirrel is in a relatively safe spot, give the mother a chance to return. Squirrel mothers often leave their young for short periods to forage for food, and they will usually come back to retrieve them. To help facilitate the reunion, create a safe and accessible space for the mother squirrel. Place the baby in a cardboard box lined with soft cloth or paper towels, and position the box near the base of the tree where you suspect the nest is located. Keep the area quiet and free from disturbances, and monitor the situation from a distance. If the mother returns, she will carefully approach the box, inspect her baby, and then carry it back to the nest. This process may take several hours, so patience is key. If, after a reasonable amount of time (typically 4-6 hours), the mother hasn't returned, or if the baby squirrel shows signs of distress, it's time to consider seeking professional wildlife rescue assistance.

Identifying Signs of Distress

Knowing how to identify signs of distress in a baby squirrel is essential for determining whether wildlife rescue is necessary. These tiny creatures can't tell us what's wrong, so we need to rely on observation and careful assessment. One of the most obvious signs of distress is visible injury. Look for any open wounds, bleeding, broken bones, or deformities. A baby squirrel with an injury will likely be in pain and unable to move properly. Another key indicator is the squirrel's overall demeanor. A healthy baby squirrel will be alert, active, and responsive to its surroundings. It will likely be vocal, making chirping or squeaking sounds. In contrast, a distressed baby squirrel may be lethargic, withdrawn, and unresponsive. It may appear weak and unable to hold its head up. Dehydration is another serious concern for baby squirrels. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, dry mouth, and wrinkled skin. You can gently pinch the skin on the back of the squirrel's neck to check for elasticity. If the skin doesn't snap back quickly, the squirrel is likely dehydrated. Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can also be a sign of distress. Baby squirrels are very susceptible to cold, especially if they're injured or separated from their mother. If the squirrel feels cold to the touch, it needs immediate warming. Look for signs of parasites, such as fleas, ticks, or mites. These parasites can weaken a baby squirrel and make it more vulnerable to illness. Diarrhea or other digestive issues can also be a sign of distress. Check the squirrel's droppings for any abnormalities. If you notice any of these signs of distress, it's important to seek professional wildlife rescue assistance as soon as possible. A licensed wildlife rehabilitator will have the expertise and resources to properly diagnose and treat the baby squirrel.

Contacting a Wildlife Rehabilitator

Once you've determined that a baby squirrel needs rescuing, the next step is to contact a wildlife rehabilitator. These trained professionals are equipped to provide the specialized care that baby squirrels require. Finding a wildlife rehabilitator in your area is usually quite straightforward. You can start by searching online for "wildlife rehabilitators near me" or "wildlife rescue organizations." Many state wildlife agencies and humane societies also maintain lists of licensed rehabilitators. When you contact a wildlife rehabilitator, be prepared to provide them with detailed information about the baby squirrel. This includes its approximate age, its condition, and the circumstances in which you found it. The rehabilitator will likely ask you questions to help them assess the situation and determine the best course of action. In some cases, the rehabilitator may be able to provide guidance over the phone, advising you on how to care for the baby squirrel until you can bring it to them. In other cases, they may ask you to bring the squirrel to their facility as soon as possible. When transporting the baby squirrel, it's important to keep it safe and comfortable. Place it in a cardboard box lined with soft cloth or paper towels, and make sure the box is well-ventilated. Keep the box in a quiet, dark place, and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could stress the squirrel. It's also important to keep the baby squirrel warm during transport. You can place a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel in the box, but make sure it's not too hot and that the squirrel has room to move away from it if it gets uncomfortable. Once you've delivered the baby squirrel to the wildlife rehabilitator, they will provide it with the necessary medical care, nutrition, and shelter. They will also work to rehabilitate the squirrel so that it can eventually be released back into the wild.

What to Expect from a Rehabilitator

When you hand over a baby squirrel to a wildlife rehabilitator, it's natural to wonder what happens next. These dedicated individuals and organizations play a vital role in wildlife rescue, and understanding their process can provide peace of mind. First and foremost, the rehabilitator will conduct a thorough assessment of the baby squirrel's health. This includes checking for injuries, dehydration, and other medical issues. They will also determine the squirrel's approximate age and species. Based on their assessment, the rehabilitator will develop a treatment plan tailored to the baby squirrel's specific needs. This may involve administering medications, providing fluids, and cleaning wounds. Nutrition is also a critical aspect of rehabilitation. Baby squirrels require a specialized diet that mimics their mother's milk. Rehabilitators use commercially available formulas designed for squirrels and feed them to the babies using syringes or small bottles. As the squirrels grow, they are gradually introduced to solid foods, such as nuts, seeds, and fruits. Housing is another important consideration. Rehabilitators provide baby squirrels with a safe and comfortable environment where they can rest and grow. This typically involves keeping them in cages or enclosures that are appropriate for their size and age. The goal is to minimize human contact and allow the squirrels to develop their natural behaviors. As the squirrels mature, rehabilitators begin the process of preparing them for release back into the wild. This may involve providing them with opportunities to practice their climbing and foraging skills. They may also be moved to outdoor enclosures to acclimate them to the environment. Finally, when the squirrels are deemed ready, they will be released back into their natural habitat. Rehabilitators carefully select release sites that are safe, suitable, and have an adequate food supply. The ultimate goal of wildlife rehabilitation is to give injured or orphaned animals a second chance at life in the wild.

Providing Temporary Care (If Advised)

In some cases, a wildlife rehabilitator may advise you to provide temporary care for a baby squirrel before you can bring it to their facility. This might be necessary if the rehabilitator is located far away, or if they are currently unavailable. However, it's crucial to remember that providing temporary care is not a substitute for professional wildlife rescue. You should only do so if specifically instructed by a rehabilitator, and you should follow their instructions carefully. The first priority is to keep the baby squirrel warm. Baby squirrels are very susceptible to cold, and hypothermia can be life-threatening. You can warm the squirrel by placing it in a cardboard box lined with soft cloth or paper towels, and then placing a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel next to it. Make sure the water bottle is not too hot, and that the squirrel has room to move away from it if it gets uncomfortable. You can also use a heating pad set on low, but be sure to place a towel between the pad and the squirrel to prevent burns. The next priority is to rehydrate the baby squirrel. Dehydration is another common problem in baby squirrels, especially if they have been separated from their mother for a long time. You can rehydrate the squirrel by giving it small amounts of unflavored Pedialyte or a similar electrolyte solution. Use a syringe or dropper to administer the fluid, and offer it slowly to prevent choking. Do not give the squirrel milk, as it can be difficult for them to digest. Once the baby squirrel is warm and hydrated, you can offer it some food. However, it's important to provide the right kind of food. Baby squirrels require a specialized diet that is high in protein and fat. You can purchase commercially available squirrel formula from a pet store or online. Mix the formula according to the instructions on the package, and feed it to the squirrel using a syringe or dropper. Feed the squirrel small amounts of formula every 2-3 hours. It's also important to keep the baby squirrel in a quiet, dark place. Stress can be harmful to baby squirrels, so it's important to minimize disturbances. Keep the squirrel away from pets and children, and avoid making loud noises or sudden movements. Remember, providing temporary care is only a short-term solution. You should contact a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible to arrange for the baby squirrel to receive professional care.

What NOT to Do

When it comes to wildlife rescue, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Well-intentioned actions can sometimes cause more harm than good, so it's crucial to avoid these common mistakes. First and foremost, do not attempt to raise a baby squirrel on your own. Baby squirrels require specialized care and a specific diet that is difficult for untrained individuals to provide. Raising a baby squirrel without the proper knowledge and resources can lead to malnutrition, illness, and even death. Do not give a baby squirrel cow's milk. Cow's milk is not easily digested by squirrels and can cause diarrhea and other digestive problems. If you need to rehydrate a baby squirrel, use unflavored Pedialyte or a similar electrolyte solution. Do not handle a baby squirrel excessively. Baby squirrels are easily stressed, and too much handling can weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to illness. Only handle a baby squirrel when necessary, and always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling it. Do not release a baby squirrel into the wild without proper rehabilitation. Baby squirrels that have been raised by humans often lack the skills necessary to survive in the wild. They may not know how to find food, build a nest, or avoid predators. Releasing a baby squirrel without proper rehabilitation is essentially a death sentence. Do not keep a wild animal as a pet. It's illegal in most places to keep wild animals as pets. Wild animals belong in the wild, and they are not suited to life in captivity. Keeping a wild animal as a pet is not only harmful to the animal, but it can also be dangerous to humans. Do not approach a baby squirrel without gloves. Always wear gloves, if available. It helps to minimize the transfer of human scent, which could deter the mother squirrel.

Releasing a Rehabilitated Squirrel

The ultimate goal of wildlife rescue is to return rehabilitated animals to their natural habitat. Releasing a rehabilitated squirrel is a rewarding experience, but it's important to do it properly to ensure the squirrel's survival. Before releasing the squirrel, it's crucial to choose a suitable release site. The ideal release site should be located in a wooded area with plenty of trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. It should also be free from hazards such as busy roads, predators, and human disturbances. It's also important to consider the time of year when releasing the squirrel. The best time to release a squirrel is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and food is plentiful. Avoid releasing squirrels in the winter, as they may not be able to find enough food to survive. Before releasing the squirrel, it's a good idea to provide it with a nest box or other shelter. This will give the squirrel a safe place to sleep and hide from predators. You can purchase commercially available squirrel nest boxes, or you can build your own. When releasing the squirrel, simply open the door of the nest box and allow it to come out on its own. Don't force the squirrel to leave, as this can stress it out. Once the squirrel has left the nest box, it will likely explore its new surroundings. You can provide it with some food, such as nuts and seeds, to help it get started. However, it's important to avoid feeding the squirrel too much, as this can make it dependent on humans. After releasing the squirrel, it's important to monitor its progress. Check on the squirrel regularly to make sure it's doing well. If you notice any problems, such as the squirrel appearing injured or sick, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. Releasing a rehabilitated squirrel is a significant step in the wildlife rescue process. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that the squirrel has a successful transition back into the wild.