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I Found a Newborn Squirrel: What Should I Do?
Encountering a helpless newborn squirrel can evoke a mix of emotions—concern, compassion, and perhaps a touch of uncertainty. While it’s natural to want to help, it’s crucial to understand the best course of action to ensure the squirrel’s well-being. Join us as we navigate the intricate world of newborn squirrel care, exploring essential steps, expert advice, and practical tips.
Newborn squirrels, often called pinkies, are extremely vulnerable and require specialized care. Their survival depends on prompt intervention. If you find a newborn squirrel, the first step is to assess its condition.
Assessing the Newborn Squirrel
Inspect the squirrel for any injuries or abnormalities. Check for breathing, movement, and response to stimuli. If the squirrel is unresponsive or severely injured, seek professional assistance immediately. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for guidance.
If the squirrel appears healthy, determine its age and species. Pinkies are typically hairless, blind, and weigh less than an ounce. Identify the species by observing its size, color, and tail shape. Accurate identification will help you provide appropriate care.
Providing Warmth and Hydration
Newborn squirrels are unable to regulate their body temperature. Create a warm, enclosed space such as a shoebox lined with soft fabric. Place a heating pad set on low under half of the box, leaving the other half cool for the squirrel to move to if needed.
Dehydration can be a severe threat. Provide fluids by gently dropper-feeding a mixture of kitten formula and water every 2-3 hours. Use a syringe or eyedropper, and ensure the fluid is warm but not hot.
Feeding the Squirrel
For proper nutrition, feed the squirrel every 2-3 hours around the clock. Continue dropper-feeding the formula mixture until the squirrel is about 4 weeks old and begins to develop teeth. Gradually introduce solid foods such as chopped nuts and seeds as the squirrel gets older.
Never feed a squirrel cow’s milk or human food, as these can be harmful. Ensure the formula is specifically designed for baby squirrels or kittens.
Stimulating Elimination
Baby squirrels need help eliminating waste. After feeding the squirrel, gently rub its genital area with a damp cotton ball to stimulate urination and defecation. Repeat this process after each feeding.
Failure to eliminate waste can lead to health problems. If the squirrel does not respond to the stimulation, seek professional assistance.
Expert Tips and Advice
– **Handle with care:** Use a soft cloth or towel when handling the squirrel to minimize stress.
– **Avoid overfeeding:** Overfeeding can lead to digestive issues. Follow the recommended feeding schedule strictly.
– **Keep the environment clean:** Regularly clean the squirrel’s enclosure and bedding to prevent infections.
– **Seek professional help when needed:** Don’t hesitate to contact a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian if you encounter any difficulties caring for the squirrel.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: Can I keep the squirrel as a pet?**
A: In most cases, it is illegal to keep a squirrel as a pet. Squirrels are wild animals and require specialized care that is best provided by trained wildlife rehabilitators.
**Q: How long will it take for the squirrel to be released?**
A: The release timeline varies depending on the species and health of the squirrel. Generally, squirrels can be released back into the wild once they are fully weaned, have developed their survival skills, and weigh around 100 grams.
**Q: What should I do if I find a dead squirrel?**
A: Do not touch or move the squirrel. Contact the local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator to report the incident.
Conclusion
Caring for a newborn squirrel is a demanding yet rewarding task. By understanding the animal’s needs, providing appropriate care, and seeking professional assistance when necessary, you can significantly increase the squirrel’s chances of survival and successful release into the wild.
If you have stumbled upon this article, you are likely passionate about wildlife welfare. Your empathy and willingness to help make a difference in the lives of these tiny creatures. Remember, your actions can profoundly impact the well-being of our shared environment.
Are you interested in learning more about baby squirrel care?
Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Your input and experiences can help enrich our understanding and support other individuals facing similar situations.
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