A pair of 7 to 8-week-old Red Squirrels are among of the latest babies to come through intake at our Wildlife Education & Rehabilitation Program. Although we usually think “spring” is when we encounter baby wildlife, many animals produce a second wave of offspring in the late summer or early fall. Like the little Red Squirrels pictured here, whenever a wild baby is healthy and active, we advise that the best course of action for the animal is to return them back to the wild. Better yet, we hope you'll call us before you interfere (440-871.2900 ext. 204!)
It’s actually not uncommon for young squirrels to show a lack of fear of humans. Even if they run right up to you, this doesn’t mean they need your help! Let them continue learning to be wild. You can help them learn a necessary and healthy fear of humans by clapping or making other loud noises to send them on their way. In fact, “What to do about friendly baby squirrels?” is Number 5 on our Frequently Asked Wildlife Rehab Questions list.
If a squirrel’s eyes are not open yet, you can return them right where you found them, or if you believe they are in imminent danger on the ground, make an artificial nest with a milk carton and hang it from a nearby tree for the wild parents to find.
-Amy LeMonds, Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist
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