Why would baby squirrels be on the ground?

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Baby squirrels often end up on the ground due to various reasons, ranging from accidental falls from the nest, nest disturbances, or maternal abandonment; however, finding a baby squirrel on the ground doesn’t necessarily mean it needs rescuing. It’s crucial to assess the situation carefully before intervening.

Introduction: The Curious Case of the Grounded Squirrel

Discovering a baby squirrel seemingly alone and vulnerable on the ground can trigger an immediate instinct to help. However, intervening without understanding why baby squirrels are on the ground can sometimes do more harm than good. This article delves into the common reasons behind this phenomenon, providing insights into when and how to assist these tiny creatures while emphasizing the importance of observing and understanding their situation before acting. As a wildlife rehabilitator with years of experience, I aim to provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating these situations, ensuring the best possible outcome for both the squirrels and well-meaning individuals.

Common Reasons for Squirrels on the Ground

Why would baby squirrels be on the ground? There are several possible reasons, and understanding the context is key:
Falls from the Nest: Young squirrels, especially those still developing their motor skills, can accidentally fall from their nests (dreys). These falls can happen during play, while exploring, or due to unstable nests.
Nest Destruction: Storms, strong winds, or even human activity can damage or destroy squirrel nests, causing the young to fall out.
Maternal Absence or Abandonment: In some cases, the mother squirrel might be temporarily away foraging or, unfortunately, may have abandoned the nest due to illness, injury, or disturbance. Sometimes, if the nest is too heavily infested with fleas or mites, the mother may abandon the nest.
Forced Eviction: As young squirrels grow, the nest can become overcrowded. Sometimes the mother squirrel may relocate the entire litter to a new nest, which can result in some of the babies temporarily being on the ground as they are moved.
Learning to Explore: Older juveniles, nearing independence, may venture out of the nest to explore their surroundings. These exploratory trips can sometimes lead them to become separated from the nest.
Predation Attempt: Predators could scare the mother or attempt to take babies from the nest, causing them to scatter and potentially fall.

Assessing the Situation: Is Intervention Necessary?

Before taking any action, carefully assess the situation. Here’s what to consider:

Observe from a Distance: Watch the baby squirrel for at least an hour or two from a safe distance. Is the mother squirrel returning to care for it? Is the baby squirrel injured?
Check for Injuries: Look for any obvious signs of injury, such as bleeding, broken limbs, or difficulty moving.
Determine the Age: Young squirrels without fur, or with eyes still closed, are highly dependent on their mother. Older juveniles with a full coat of fur and open eyes may be more independent.
Assess the Environment: Is the baby squirrel in a dangerous location, such as a busy road or exposed to extreme weather?
Warmth: If the baby feels cold to the touch, it may be suffering from hypothermia and needs immediate help.

The “Towel Trick”: Attempting Reunification

If the baby squirrel appears healthy but is simply out of the nest, attempting to reunite it with its mother is the best course of action. The following procedure can greatly increase the chances of a successful rescue by the mom:

Place the Squirrel in a Safe Spot: Place the baby squirrel in a shallow box lined with a soft towel. This will provide warmth and protection.
Secure the Box: Position the box near the base of the tree where you suspect the nest is located, or as close as possible to where you found the baby squirrel.
Monitor from a Distance: Observe from a distance for several hours. The mother squirrel may be hesitant to approach if you are nearby.
Provide Warmth: If the weather is cold, you can place a heating pad set on low underneath the box, ensuring that the squirrel has room to move away from the heat if it gets too warm.
Be Patient: It may take several hours for the mother squirrel to find her baby. She might be hesitant due to your presence or other disturbances.
What happens if there is no mom? If the mom doesn’t return after several hours, it may need to be brought to a wildlife rehabilitation expert.

When to Intervene: Contacting a Wildlife Rehabilitator

In certain situations, intervention is necessary. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if:

The baby squirrel is injured or sick.
The baby squirrel is cold to the touch.
The mother squirrel does not return after several hours.
The baby squirrel is in a dangerous location.
The baby squirrel is very young and still requires constant care (no fur, eyes closed).
You observe flies or maggots on the squirrel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming Abandonment Too Quickly: Mother squirrels often leave their young for extended periods while foraging. Give her ample time to return.
Feeding Inappropriate Foods: Feeding baby squirrels cow’s milk or other inappropriate foods can cause serious digestive problems.
Keeping the Squirrel as a Pet: It is illegal and detrimental to the squirrel’s well-being to keep a wild animal as a pet. These animals have very specific needs that cannot easily be met in a domestic environment. They will not be able to socialize appropriately if raised away from their families.
Overhandling: Excessive handling can stress the baby squirrel and make it less likely to be accepted back by its mother.

Releasing Rehabilitated Squirrels

If a squirrel is taken in for rehabilitation, it needs to be returned to the wild. It’s important to:

Release the squirrel in an area that is safe.
Release the squirrel during favorable weather.
Provide a supply of food and water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do baby squirrels eat?

Baby squirrels require a specialized diet that mimics their mother’s milk. Wildlife rehabilitators typically use esbilac or other specially formulated milk replacers. Never give a baby squirrel cow’s milk, as it can cause diarrhea and other health problems. As they grow, they will be transitioned to nuts, seeds, and other natural foods.

How can I tell how old a baby squirrel is?

The age of a baby squirrel can be estimated based on its physical development. Newborn squirrels are hairless with their eyes closed. Slightly older squirrels will have some fur and their eyes will open around 4-5 weeks old. Juvenile squirrels will have a full coat of fur and will be increasingly independent.

What do I do if I accidentally touch a baby squirrel? Will the mother reject it?

This is a common myth! Mother squirrels will not reject their babies because they have been touched by humans. It is perfectly safe to handle a baby squirrel briefly to assess its condition or attempt reunification.

Is it legal to keep a baby squirrel if I can’t find its mother?

In most places, it is illegal to keep a wild animal, including a squirrel, without proper permits and licensing. It is always best to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who can provide the necessary care and eventual release into the wild.

How can I prevent squirrels from nesting in my attic?

Preventing squirrels from nesting in your attic requires proactive measures. Seal any potential entry points, such as holes or gaps in your roof, eaves, or around pipes. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof to limit access. You can also use squirrel deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices.

What are the signs that a baby squirrel is sick or injured?

Signs of illness or injury in a baby squirrel include lethargy, difficulty breathing, bleeding, broken limbs, and the presence of flies or maggots. A baby squirrel that is cold to the touch is also in distress.

How long do baby squirrels stay with their mother?

Baby squirrels typically stay with their mother for about 10-12 weeks . During this time, she will provide them with food, warmth, and protection, and teach them essential survival skills.

Can I feed the squirrels in my yard?

While feeding squirrels can be enjoyable, it can also create problems. Overfeeding can lead to dependency and overcrowding, and it can also attract unwanted pests. If you choose to feed squirrels, do so in moderation and offer healthy options like nuts and seeds.

What should I do if I find a whole nest of baby squirrels on the ground?

If you find a whole nest of baby squirrels on the ground, try to locate the nest from which they fell and gently place them back inside. If the nest is damaged beyond repair, you can create a temporary nest out of a box lined with soft materials and secure it to the tree as high as possible. Monitor the situation to see if the mother returns.

What are some common predators of baby squirrels?

Common predators of baby squirrels include hawks, owls, snakes, raccoons, cats, and dogs . Protecting baby squirrels from predators is a crucial part of their survival.

Why do squirrels bury nuts?

Squirrels bury nuts as a way to store food for the winter months , when food is scarce. This behavior is called caching . Squirrels have an excellent memory and can usually locate the nuts they have buried, but sometimes they forget, which helps to disperse seeds and grow new trees.

What is the best way to handle a squirrel?

If you must handle a squirrel, wear thick gloves to protect yourself from bites and scratches. Gently scoop the squirrel up, supporting its body, and avoid squeezing it. Handle the squirrel as little as possible and release it as soon as you can.