When Do Baby Squirrels Eat? A Guide to Feeding Schedules
Baby squirrels typically eat multiple times a day, with feedings occurring most frequently during the daylight hours. Their need for frequent feeding makes it crucial to understand what time of day do baby squirrels eat? for their health and survival.
Understanding the Dietary Needs of Baby Squirrels
Caring for baby squirrels, especially orphaned ones, requires understanding their unique nutritional needs and feeding schedules. Unlike adult squirrels, who forage independently throughout the day, baby squirrels are entirely dependent on their mother (or a caregiver) for sustenance. The frequency and timing of feedings are critical for their development and survival. Neglecting to provide sufficient nourishment can quickly lead to serious health issues, including dehydration, malnutrition, and even death. What time of day do baby squirrels eat? is a crucial question for anyone considering caring for these vulnerable creatures.
Establishing a Feeding Schedule
A baby squirrel’s age plays a significant role in determining its feeding schedule. Newborn squirrels, up to a few weeks old, require feedings every 2-3 hours around the clock, including during the night. As they grow older and their digestive systems mature, the frequency of feedings can be gradually reduced.
- Newborn (0-2 weeks): Every 2-3 hours, around the clock.
- Infant (2-4 weeks): Every 3-4 hours, during daylight hours, with a longer break overnight.
- Young Juvenile (4-6 weeks): Every 4-5 hours, during daylight hours.
- Older Juvenile (6+ weeks): 3-4 times per day, during daylight hours.
This table provides a guideline:
| Age (Weeks) | Feeding Frequency | Time of Day |
|---|---|---|
| ————- | :————-: | :————-: |
| 0-2 | Every 2-3 hours | Around the clock |
| 2-4 | Every 3-4 hours | Daylight hours |
| 4-6 | Every 4-5 hours | Daylight hours |
| 6+ | 3-4 times per day | Daylight hours |
Ideal Formula and Feeding Techniques
Choosing the right formula is crucial for the health of baby squirrels. Specialized wildlife milk replacers are available and are far superior to cow’s milk, which can be difficult for squirrels to digest. Always follow the product instructions for proper mixing and dosage.
The feeding technique is just as important as the formula itself. Use a small syringe or a specialized pet nurser bottle with a small nipple. Hold the baby squirrel in an upright position, mimicking how it would nurse from its mother. Gently insert the syringe or nipple into its mouth and allow it to suckle at its own pace. Never force-feed a baby squirrel, as this can lead to aspiration pneumonia, a serious and often fatal condition.
Monitoring Hydration and Weight Gain
Proper hydration and weight gain are key indicators of a healthy baby squirrel. You can assess hydration by gently pinching the skin on its back; if it snaps back quickly, the squirrel is well-hydrated. If the skin tents, it’s a sign of dehydration, and you should consult with a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
Regularly weigh the baby squirrel to track its weight gain. A consistent increase in weight is a good sign that the feeding schedule and formula are appropriate. If the squirrel is not gaining weight or is losing weight, it may indicate an underlying health problem or inadequate nutrition.
Weaning Process and Introduction to Solid Foods
As baby squirrels reach the age of 6-8 weeks, they can gradually be introduced to solid foods. Start by offering small amounts of softened, age-appropriate foods such as mashed fruits, vegetables, and rodent blocks. Gradually increase the amount of solid food and decrease the amount of formula as the squirrel adjusts. By the time they are around 10-12 weeks old, they should be fully weaned and eating a diet of solid foods. Knowing what time of day do baby squirrels eat? during weaning is still important; offer the solid foods primarily during the day, aligning with their natural foraging patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start feeding a found baby squirrel?
It’s crucial to assess the squirrel’s condition first. If it appears dehydrated, weak, or injured, seek immediate help from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. If the squirrel seems relatively healthy, begin feeding it as soon as possible, following the age-appropriate feeding schedule. Delaying feeding can have serious consequences for a young squirrel.
How do I know if I’m feeding the baby squirrel enough?
Observe the squirrel’s behavior and physical condition. A well-fed baby squirrel will appear alert, active, and content. Its belly should be rounded, but not overly distended. Regular weight checks are essential for monitoring growth. A healthy baby squirrel should gain weight consistently.
What happens if I accidentally overfeed a baby squirrel?
Overfeeding can cause digestive problems, such as diarrhea, bloating, and vomiting. It can also lead to aspiration pneumonia if the squirrel regurgitates the formula and inhales it into its lungs. If you suspect you have overfed a baby squirrel, withhold the next feeding and monitor its condition closely. Consult with a wildlife rehabilitator if the symptoms persist.
Can I use regular cow’s milk to feed a baby squirrel?
No, regular cow’s milk is not suitable for baby squirrels. It lacks the essential nutrients they need and can cause digestive problems. Always use a specialized wildlife milk replacer formulated specifically for squirrels or other small mammals.
What if the baby squirrel refuses to eat?
Refusal to eat can indicate an underlying health problem or stress. Try warming the formula slightly and offering it in a quiet, stress-free environment. If the squirrel continues to refuse to eat, seek help from a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
How do I stimulate a baby squirrel to urinate and defecate?
Baby squirrels need assistance with urination and defecation until they are a few weeks old. After each feeding, gently massage their anal and genital area with a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball. This mimics the mother squirrel’s grooming behavior and stimulates them to eliminate waste.
Is it safe to release a hand-raised baby squirrel back into the wild?
Releasing a hand-raised baby squirrel back into the wild requires careful planning and preparation. The squirrel must be fully weaned, able to forage for food, and exhibit appropriate survival behaviors. It’s best to release the squirrel in an area where squirrels are already present, and provide supplemental food and water for a period of time. Consult with a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance on proper release techniques.
What are the signs of a healthy baby squirrel?
Healthy baby squirrels are alert, active, and responsive. They have bright eyes, a clean coat, and a strong grip. They feed eagerly and gain weight consistently. Any signs of illness or distress should be addressed promptly.
How often should I clean the baby squirrel’s enclosure?
The baby squirrel’s enclosure should be cleaned daily to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors. Remove any soiled bedding, uneaten food, and waste. Disinfect the enclosure regularly with a mild disinfectant solution.
What temperature should the baby squirrel’s environment be kept at?
Baby squirrels need a warm and stable environment. The temperature should be maintained at around 85-90°F (29-32°C) for newborns and gradually decreased to around 75-80°F (24-27°C) as they grow older. Use a heat lamp or a heating pad to provide supplemental warmth.
How can I prevent imprinting on a hand-raised baby squirrel?
Imprinting occurs when a young animal forms a strong attachment to humans, making it difficult for them to survive in the wild. To prevent imprinting, limit human interaction as much as possible and avoid treating the squirrel like a pet. Minimize handling, avoid making eye contact, and provide opportunities for the squirrel to interact with other squirrels (if possible).
If I am unable to care for the baby squirrel, where can I take it?
The best course of action is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They have the expertise and resources to properly care for orphaned or injured squirrels and ensure their eventual release back into the wild. Never attempt to raise a wild animal without the proper permits and knowledge. Understanding what time of day do baby squirrels eat? is just one small part of providing adequate care for these sensitive animals.