How To Release a Squirrel Back Into The Wild: A Step-by-Step Guide
Returning a rescued or rehabilitated squirrel to its natural habitat requires careful planning and execution to ensure its survival. This comprehensive guide explains how to release a squirrel back into the wild responsibly, increasing its chances of a successful transition.
Understanding Squirrel Rehabilitation and Release
Squirrels, often endearing backyard visitors, sometimes require human intervention. Perhaps you’ve found an orphaned baby squirrel, or nursed an injured adult back to health. While the impulse to help is admirable, successfully returning a squirrel to the wild demands a thorough understanding of their needs and a carefully planned release strategy.
The Importance of Proper Rehabilitation
Before even considering release, ensure the squirrel is truly ready. This means:
- Physical Health: The squirrel must be free of injuries and diseases, possessing the strength and coordination to climb, forage, and escape predators.
- Age and Development: Young squirrels need to be fully weaned, able to crack nuts, and exhibit natural foraging behaviors. Premature release can be fatal.
- Wildness: The squirrel should retain its natural fear of humans and other domestic animals. Over-socialization decreases its chances of survival in the wild.
Choosing the Right Release Location
The release location is paramount to the squirrel’s success. Consider the following factors:
- Suitable Habitat: Opt for areas with abundant trees, natural food sources (nuts, seeds, fruits), and access to fresh water.
- Low Human and Pet Traffic: Minimize contact with humans and domestic animals to reduce stress and the risk of injury.
- Familiar Territory: If possible, release the squirrel near where it was found (if safe). If not, choose an area with existing squirrel populations.
- Avoid Known Hazards: Steer clear of busy roads, areas with excessive pesticide use, and locations with a high density of predators.
The Gradual Release Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
How do you release a squirrel back into the wild? A gradual release is typically more successful than an immediate one. This allows the squirrel to acclimate to its new environment and learn to forage independently.
- Acclimation Cage: Place the squirrel in a large outdoor cage or enclosure in the chosen release location for at least a week or two. This allows it to become familiar with the sights, sounds, and smells of its new home.
- Provide Food and Water: Continue to provide food and water inside the cage. Gradually reduce the amount of food offered, encouraging the squirrel to forage outside the cage.
- Open the Cage Door: After the acclimation period, leave the cage door open during the day, allowing the squirrel to come and go as it pleases. Continue to provide supplemental food inside the cage as a safety net.
- Gradually Reduce Supplemental Feeding: Over several weeks, gradually decrease the amount of supplemental food offered, until the squirrel is completely self-sufficient.
- Monitor the Squirrel: Observe the squirrel’s behavior. Ensure it is foraging successfully, building a nest, and integrating into the local squirrel population.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Releasing Too Early: This is a fatal mistake. Ensure the squirrel is truly ready before release.
- Choosing an Unsuitable Location: Habitat is critical. Select a location with adequate food, water, and shelter.
- Sudden Release: A gradual release is far more effective than simply releasing the squirrel into a new environment.
- Over-Socialization: Avoid excessive handling and interaction, which can diminish the squirrel’s natural fear of humans.
- Failing to Monitor: Monitor the squirrel’s progress after release to ensure it is adapting successfully.
Preparing for the Release: A Checklist
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| —————– | ———————————————————————————————————- |
| Release Cage | A sturdy, weather-proof cage or enclosure, large enough for the squirrel to move around comfortably. |
| Food and Water | A supply of appropriate food (nuts, seeds, fruits) and fresh water. |
| Release Location | A safe, suitable habitat with abundant food and shelter. |
| Monitoring Tools | Binoculars for observing the squirrel’s behavior from a distance. |
| Time and Patience | Releasing a squirrel requires time and patience. Don’t rush the process. |
FAQs About Releasing Squirrels Back Into the Wild
How do you release a squirrel back into the wild if it was raised indoors?
The key to successfully releasing a squirrel raised indoors is a gradual acclimation period. Begin by placing the squirrel in an outdoor cage for several weeks, allowing it to adjust to the climate and sounds. Gradually reduce supplemental feeding to encourage foraging, and then leave the cage door open for daytime exploration. Continue to monitor its progress closely.
How long should a squirrel stay in an acclimation cage before release?
The ideal acclimation period varies depending on the squirrel’s age, health, and the time of year. However, a minimum of one to two weeks is generally recommended. This allows the squirrel to become familiar with its surroundings and establish a sense of territory.
What is the best time of year to release a squirrel?
The best time to release a squirrel is during the spring or early fall, when the weather is mild and food is plentiful. Avoid releasing squirrels during the winter months, when food is scarce and survival rates are lower. Summer can also be challenging due to heat and potential competition for resources.
Can you release a squirrel in your backyard?
Releasing a squirrel in your backyard is acceptable if your backyard provides a suitable habitat with abundant trees, food sources, and shelter. However, be mindful of potential conflicts with pets and neighbors. It’s often better to choose a more remote location to maximize the squirrel’s chances of survival.
What kind of food should I provide for a released squirrel?
Supplement the squirrel’s diet with natural foods it would find in the wild, such as nuts (acorns, walnuts, pecans), seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid feeding them processed foods, which can be harmful to their health.
How do I know if a released squirrel is doing well?
Signs of a successful release include the squirrel foraging independently, building a nest, and interacting with other squirrels in the area. Healthy squirrels will be active, alert, and have a shiny coat.
What if the released squirrel keeps coming back to my house?
If the squirrel keeps returning, it may not be fully self-sufficient. Continue to provide supplemental food and water, while gradually encouraging it to forage further away from your house. Make sure to eliminate attractants near your home, such as easily accessible bird feeders.
Can I release multiple squirrels at the same time?
Releasing siblings or a mother and her offspring together can be beneficial, as they will provide each other with social support. However, avoid releasing unrelated squirrels at the same time, as they may compete for resources and territory.
What should I do if I see a released squirrel that is injured?
If you find a released squirrel that is injured, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. They will be able to assess the squirrel’s injuries and provide appropriate treatment.
Is it legal to release a squirrel back into the wild?
Laws regarding wildlife rehabilitation and release vary by state and local jurisdiction. Contact your local wildlife agency to ensure you are following all applicable regulations.
What are the signs that a squirrel is not ready for release?
Signs that a squirrel is not ready for release include: lethargy, poor coordination, an inability to forage, excessive dependence on humans, and persistent injuries or illness.
How do you release a squirrel back into the wild without it becoming prey?
Choosing a location with adequate cover (trees, shrubs) will minimize the squirrel’s exposure to predators. Also, avoid releasing squirrels in areas with a high density of known predators, such as hawks, owls, and foxes. Providing supplemental food and water near cover can also help the squirrel establish a safe territory.