When you see a 7-week-old squirrel, you’ll notice they start to look like miniature versions of adult squirrels. At this age, their fur is fully grown, giving them a soft and bushy appearance. These young squirrels typically measure around 7 to 8 inches long and have bright, alert eyes that sparkle with curiosity.
You might also observe their tails, which become bushier and play an important role in their balance as they begin to explore their surroundings. As they become more active, these baby squirrels often engage in playful behaviors, climbing and jumping as they learn to navigate through trees and other areas.
Caring for a 7-week-old squirrel is essential as they continue to develop. Make sure they have access to the right kinds of food and environment to thrive during this crucial growth stage.
Physical Characteristics and Development
At seven weeks old, baby squirrels show strong signs of growth and development. They begin to resemble juvenile squirrels and display distinct physical features. It’s important to understand what to expect during this stage to help you identify and care for them.
Appearance of a 7-Week-Old Squirrel
By this age, the eastern gray squirrel, like many baby squirrels, has a full coat of fur. Their fur is often a mix of gray and white, characteristic of juvenile squirrels.
Their eyes are fully open and bright, and their ears have developed to a noticeable size. You’ll see that their tails are bushy and fluffy, adding to their growing appearance.
Typically, a seven-week-old squirrel weighs between 70 to 100 grams. They are very active and playful, exploring their surroundings more confidently than before. This is when their personality truly starts to shine!
Stages of Squirrel Development
Squirrel development has key stages you may want to know about.
- Newborn Stage (0-2 Weeks): Newborn squirrels are hairless and eyes closed.
- Infant Stage (3-5 Weeks): At this stage, they develop a thin layer of fur and begin to open their eyes. They are still very dependent on their mother.
- Juvenile Stage (6-8 Weeks): By seven weeks, they become significantly more independent. Their physical features develop rapidly, resembling small adults.
Understanding these stages helps you appreciate how quickly they grow and adapt. The changes in their appearance signal their journey toward becoming healthy, independent squirrels.
Behavior and Care
At 7 weeks old, squirrels are becoming more independent and active. You will notice their playful nature and growing need for proper care. Their behaviors include exploring their environment and learning essential survival skills.
Feeding and Diet
At this age, baby squirrels eat solid food along with formula. A balanced diet includes:
- Nuts: Almonds and walnuts are great options.
- Fruits: Sweet fruits like apples and bananas work well.
- Veggies: Leafy greens and carrots can be included.
It’s important to avoid junk food and always provide fresh, clean water. You can also give them a specialized squirrel formula if they still need milk. Ensure all food is cut into small pieces to make it easy for them to chew.
Early Social Behaviors
Young squirrels are typically friendly but can be shy. They often bond with their siblings through play. They might engage in:
- Chasing and wrestling: Helps develop their agility.
- Climbing: Essential for building their skills to navigate trees as they grow.
- Vocalizations: They communicate with squeaks and chattering sounds.
As they play, they learn important survival skills they will need later. It’s vital to give them space to play while ensuring they are safe from pets or predators.
Caring for Orphaned Squirrels
If you find an orphaned baby squirrel, you should act quickly. Follow these steps to care for them:
- Contact a wildlife rehabilitator: They provide the best guidance and support.
- Keep them warm: Use a blanket or heating pad at low heat.
- Feed them: Use a squirrel milk replacement formula; avoid cow’s milk.
Remember, keeping wild squirrels as pets is not encouraged, as they require specialized care. If you help orphaned squirrels grow, they can be released back into nature when they are about 12 weeks old.
