If you find a baby squirrel alone, it can be distressing. To ensure a baby squirrel is okay, check for signs of dehydration and injury, and determine if it needs to be returned to its mother. Understanding these signs can help you decide the best course of action for the little creature.
You may feel tempted to touch a baby squirrel, but it’s important to avoid handling them unnecessarily. Instead, observe from a distance. If the squirrel appears cold or is crying, it may need help. Make sure to provide warmth and keep it safe until you can assess its situation or seek professional assistance.
Saving a baby squirrel requires careful attention. Assess its health and behavior. If it seems weak or unresponsive, it might need immediate care. Learning how to identify these signs ensures that you can help a baby squirrel effectively.
Assessing a Baby Squirrel’s Health and Needs
When you find a baby squirrel, it’s important to assess its health and needs. You’ll want to determine its age, look for signs of distress or injury, and understand its normal behavior. Each of these points helps you figure out how to care for the little one.
Determining the Age of the Squirrel
Knowing the age of the squirrel helps you provide the right care. A pink, hairless baby is likely around one week old. As they grow, they develop fur and start to open their eyes. A three-week-old squirrel has some fur, and their eyes may be starting to open. At about five weeks, they are furrier and beginning to explore.
Here’s a quick age guide:
- 1 week: Pink and hairless.
- 3 weeks: Fuzzy, may have opened eyes.
- 5 weeks: Fur-covered, active and playful.
Understanding this growth will help you know how much assistance they need.
Identifying Signs of Distress or Injury
If the squirrel appears lethargic, weak, or unresponsive, it may need help. Look for any signs of injury, such as wounds or bleeding. Check its behavior as well. A healthy baby squirrel is active and curious, while one in distress may not move much.
Common signs of injury include:
- Visible wounds or bleeding.
- Swelling in any area.
- Abnormal posture or difficulty moving.
If you notice these signs, it’s best to contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice.
Understanding Normal Squirrel Behavior
Normal behavior is key to knowing if your baby squirrel is okay. A healthy baby squirrel should be lively and engage in playful activities. They often explore their environment and interact with their surroundings.
Look for these typical behaviors:
- Climbing or attempting to climb.
- Chewing on small items.
- Vocalizing or making small sounds.
If the squirrel doesn’t show these behaviors, it may indicate a problem. Regular monitoring will help you gauge its health better.
Caring for an Orphaned or Injured Squirrel
If you find an orphaned or injured squirrel, it’s important to provide the right care to help it survive. Pay close attention to its nutritional needs and know when to seek professional help.
Proper Feeding and Hydration
Feeding a baby squirrel correctly is vital for its recovery. Start by offering a special milk formula designed for juvenile squirrels, like Esbilac or a similar puppy milk replacer. Avoid cow’s milk as it can upset their stomachs.
Monitor the squirrel for signs of dehydration such as sunken eyes or a dry mouth. If you notice these signs, offer fluids using an eye dropper or a syringe carefully.
As the squirrel grows, introduce soft solid foods like fruits, vegetables, and specially formulated squirrel pellets. The diet should be balanced and appropriate for the squirrel’s age. Gradually increase the amount of food as they wean.
For grey squirrels and American red squirrels, the survival rate improves with proper feeding. Use these guidelines to ensure they get the essential nutrients they need.
When and How to Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator
You should contact a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as you find an injured or orphaned squirrel. They have the experience and resources to help. If the squirrel is very young and still needs weaning, immediate professional care is crucial.
If the squirrel shows any signs of infection or unusual behavior, it’s time to seek help. Be cautious and avoid handling it too much, as stress can worsen its condition.
To find a wildlife rehabilitator, look online or contact local animal control for guidance. When you speak with them, provide details about the squirrel’s condition and surroundings. They can give you the best advice on how to help the little one.
