A baby squirrel has the best chance of survival when it is cared for by its mother. Before intervening, we want to make sure the squirrel really needs our help. Keep in mind that young squirrels found on the ground may be completely healthy. They may not be orphans and may simply need help reuniting with their mothers.
If the juvenile squirrel is approaching humans or pets, it could be a sign that it is hungry or sick and should be brought to a rehabilitator. Always wear thick gloves (like gardening gloves) when attempting to handle a juvenile squirrel as they can bite.
How to re-nest an infant squirrel:
- Warm the squirrel. Place uncooked rice or bird seed in a sock and warm in the microwave for 20 – 30 seconds. Wrap the sock in a soft towel and place it with the baby in an open container (e.g., a tissue box or wicker basket). Do not give the baby food or water.
- Locate the mother squirrel’s nesting tree. This should be a tree in the immediate area where the squirrel was found. If you don’t know which tree the squirrel’s nest is in, or if the nest was destroyed, then choose a tree closest to where the squirrel was found. Squirrel nests can either be in tree cavities, or in “dreys” (the big balls of dried leaves at the tops of trees). Playing audio of baby squirrel sounds can help you determine if the mother is in the area.
- Return the infant to the tree. Place the container with the sock, towel, and the baby squirrel at the base of the tree. If possible, leave audio of baby squirrel sounds playing nearby the box to help the mother find her baby. Keep children, dogs, and cats out of the area.
- Check for the mother’s return. If possible, observe the baby squirrel box from a distance for the next six to eight hours of daylight. Reheat the rice/birdseed bag every two hours to keep the infant warm.
If you’re unsure whether an animal needs help, City Wildlife is available daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 202-882-1000. Adding pictures in an email is helpful for our staff to identify the animal and it’s particular needs. For assistance outside the District of Columbia, visit Animal Help Now (www.AHNow.org) and click on the “Wildlife Emergency” button to find a local rehabber.
