Squirrels in Need
Guide for animal lovers: tips for saving squirrel babies
Squirrels typically give birth between January and September, and their young remain dependent on them for up to four months. During this time, parent squirrels often travel long distances in search of food, frequently crossing busy roads and navigating urban environments. This exposes both parents and their offspring to significant danger. If a parent is injured or killed, the young are left alone, without assistance and are unlikely to survive.
Squirrels in need 'ask' for help
In distress, squirrels may actively seek help in ways that can seem unusual. Unlike many wild animals, they may approach humans, follow passersby, or even try to climb onto them. This behavior is not a sign of aggression or illness, but rather, it is a desperate attempt to get help. If a young squirrel is drawing attention to itself in this way, it should never be ignored.
What to do?
- Wrap the young squirrel in a sweater to give it warmth and security and take it home.
- Put the squirrel in a box that has a lid with holes. Make sure the squirrel cannot escape but gets enough fresh air and is comfortable.
- When you get home, you should fill a hot water bottle or plastic bottle with warm (not too hot) water and put it in a box. With a blanket, you can build a small nest for the squirrel in which it feels safe.
- Pay attention to the right amount of warmth: the optimal temperature for squirrels is between 36 and 38 degrees.
- Place the box in a draft-free location.
Please contact the nearest wild animal center
The best course of action is to bring the young squirrel to your nearest wildlife rescue center, veterinary clinic or any place that may have experienced and qualified persons as soon as possible. If immediate help is not available, you can offer a small amount of fennel tea (lightly sweetened with honey) to prevent dehydration. The squirrel can gently lick the liquid from your hands. Remember to thoroughly clean and disinfect your hands beforehand. Afterward, return to the area where the animal was found and check for any siblings. If the parents have been injured or killed, other young squirrels nearby may also be at risk and in need of help.
