How Long Does It Take Squirrels To Have Babies? A Comprehensive Guide
Squirrel gestation periods vary by species, but generally, squirrels take about 38-45 days to have their babies after conception, a process known as gestation. This means that if you’re wondering, How long does it take squirrels to have babies?, the answer lies within this relatively short timeframe.
Understanding Squirrel Reproduction
Squirrels, delightful yet sometimes troublesome creatures, are a common sight in parks, gardens, and even urban environments. Understanding their reproductive cycle, particularly gestation, is crucial for wildlife enthusiasts, homeowners, and anyone interested in these fascinating animals. Knowing how long it takes squirrels to have babies can help you manage squirrel populations responsibly.
Squirrel Species and Gestation Periods
It’s important to note that “squirrel” is a broad term encompassing various species, each with slightly different gestation periods. The most common species and their approximate gestation lengths are:
- Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): 44-45 days
- Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger): 44-45 days
- Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus): 38-40 days
- Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans): 39-40 days
These numbers provide a general guideline. Factors like the squirrel’s age, health, and environmental conditions can influence the exact duration of gestation.
The Squirrel Mating Season
Squirrels typically have two breeding seasons per year. The first usually occurs in late winter/early spring (February-March), and the second in late summer/early fall (August-September). During these periods, males compete for the attention of females, engaging in chases and vocalizations. After successful mating, the gestation period begins.
Nesting and Preparing for Baby Squirrels
Before giving birth, female squirrels prepare a nest, also known as a drey. Dreys are typically built in tree cavities or high in the branches of trees using twigs, leaves, moss, and other soft materials. These nests provide a safe and warm environment for the newborn squirrels, called kits. The mother squirrel will meticulously line the drey to ensure her offspring are protected from the elements. This preparation is vital, especially considering how long it takes squirrels to have babies, as the kits are entirely dependent on their mother for the first several weeks of their lives.
The Birthing Process and Early Development
Once the gestation period is complete, the female squirrel will give birth to a litter of usually 2-5 kits. Newborn squirrels are tiny, hairless, blind, and completely helpless. The mother squirrel provides constant care, keeping them warm, feeding them milk, and protecting them from predators. It will be weeks before the young squirrels can see or leave the nest, and it is typically around 10 weeks before they are fully independent.
Factors Affecting Gestation Length
While the general gestation periods are well-established, several factors can influence the precise duration:
- Nutrition: A well-nourished female squirrel is more likely to have a successful pregnancy and a normal gestation period.
- Stress: High levels of stress, such as from predators or environmental changes, can potentially affect gestation length.
- Age: Younger or older female squirrels may experience slightly different gestation periods compared to prime-age individuals.
- Health: Illness or parasites can also impact the gestation process.
What To Do If You Find Baby Squirrels
If you find baby squirrels that appear orphaned, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Observe from a distance to see if the mother returns. Often, the mother is simply foraging for food. If the mother does not return after a reasonable time (several hours), or if the babies are injured or in immediate danger, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. Do not attempt to raise the squirrels yourself, as they require specialized care.
Managing Squirrel Populations
Understanding how long it takes squirrels to have babies is vital for homeowners dealing with squirrel infestations. Preventing access to nesting areas, securing food sources, and employing humane deterrents are effective strategies for managing squirrel populations without causing harm.
A Table of Squirrel Species and Gestation Lengths
| Squirrel Species | Gestation Period (Days) |
|---|---|
| —————————– | ———————– |
| Eastern Gray Squirrel | 44-45 |
| Fox Squirrel | 44-45 |
| Red Squirrel | 38-40 |
| Southern Flying Squirrel | 39-40 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Squirrel Gestation
Is it possible for a squirrel to have more than one litter per year?
Yes, most squirrel species can have two litters per year. These litters typically occur in the spring and late summer/early fall, taking advantage of the seasonal abundance of food resources. The female squirrel needs sufficient resources to successfully raise each litter.
What is the average litter size for squirrels?
The average litter size varies by species, but generally ranges from 2 to 5 kits. Factors like the mother’s age and the availability of food can influence litter size. A healthy environment usually correlates with slightly larger litters.
How long do baby squirrels stay in the nest?
Baby squirrels typically remain in the nest for about 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, they are entirely dependent on their mother for warmth, nourishment, and protection. They will gradually start to explore outside the nest under the mother’s supervision.
What do baby squirrels eat?
Baby squirrels are fed exclusively on their mother’s milk for the first several weeks of their lives. Squirrel milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies, crucial for their development and immune system. Once weaned, they transition to solid foods such as nuts, seeds, and fruits.
How can I tell if a baby squirrel is orphaned?
If a baby squirrel appears alone and distressed for an extended period, especially if it is injured or cold, it may be orphaned. However, always observe from a distance for several hours to ensure the mother is not simply foraging. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator if you suspect the squirrel is truly orphaned.
What should I do if I find a baby squirrel that has fallen from a tree?
If the baby squirrel is uninjured, you can try to place it back in the nest. If the nest is unreachable, you can create a temporary nest using a small box lined with soft materials and place it as close to the original nest as possible. Monitor to see if the mother retrieves the baby.
Do male squirrels help raise the young?
No, male squirrels typically do not participate in raising the young. The mother squirrel is solely responsible for providing care and protection to her kits.
How can I prevent squirrels from nesting in my attic or other unwanted areas?
Seal any potential entry points to your home, such as holes in the roof or around pipes. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof to prevent squirrels from accessing your home. You can also use humane squirrel deterrents to discourage them from nesting in your property.
Are squirrels protective of their nests and young?
Yes, female squirrels are very protective of their nests and young. They will fiercely defend their kits from perceived threats, including humans. It’s important to approach nests cautiously and avoid disturbing them whenever possible.
How can I help squirrels in my yard without encouraging them to become pests?
Provide a source of fresh water and plant native trees and shrubs that offer natural food sources. Avoid leaving out large quantities of food, as this can attract squirrels and other unwanted animals.
What is the lifespan of a squirrel in the wild?
The average lifespan of a squirrel in the wild is 5 to 10 years, although some individuals may live longer. Factors such as predation, disease, and food availability can influence their lifespan.
How long does it take squirrels to become independent from their mother?
Squirrels typically become fully independent from their mother around 10 weeks of age. At this point, they are able to forage for food, build their own nests, and survive on their own.