Squirrel Rescue Info
Calls about orphaned squirrels are one of the most common wildlife calls. Like all wildlife, a squirrel's best chance of survival is with their mom. Squirrels are known to retrieve their babies hours, and even up to 2 days after they fall out of the nest. It is common for babies to fall out of their nest during storms, arborists to cut down trees with nests in them, and even a squirming baby accident. Reuniting with mom is always the best and prefered option.
If you find a baby squirrel who is NOT injured, just orphaned call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator to help guide you through the reuniting process.You will be instructed to create a rice sock (stuff rice in a stock and microwave until warm), place the rice sock in a bowl that is not too shallow (baby will climb out), but not too deep (mom can’t see baby) lined with either fleece or an old t-shirt. Place the bowl near the nest (bottom of free, attic, etc.), go on YouTube and search for baby squirrel cries. The mother will hear this and come for the baby. Observe from a distance (inside the house through a window, on a porch far away from the baby) for the next 6-8 hours. You must reheat the rice sock every 2 hours. If reuniting is unsuccessful by dark, the baby must be brought inside in a warm, quiet place. DO NOT handle the baby, feed, or give water. They aspirate VERY easily which leads to death. Try reuniting again at sunrise. If by dark the baby is not reunited, they are now truly orphaned and must go into the care of a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. NEVER ATTEMPT TO RAISE/REHAB A SQUIRREL ON YOUR OWN.
If you find a baby squirrel who is injured, place them in a box with a rice sock and fleece blanket DO NOT FEED OR GIVE WATER. Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately and wait for further instruction.
