Baby Tree Squirrels
Safe Handling
Rodents have extremly sharp teeth and strong jaws, even at a young age. Always wear gloves and use a blanket or flat woven towel if necessary to handle.
If a baby squirrel has a fluffy tail and can run, jump and climb, it should not require assistance. This is a normal stage of development when they are starting to explore their independence away from the nest. It is important to leave them be unless they are injured or have been grabbed by a cat or dog.
If you find an infant squirrel(s), with closed eyes or a smooth tail, displaced from their nest, give the mother time to retrieve them. Make sure they are warm and dry, then place them in an open box or container with a source of warmth and a soft cloth (flat weave towel or fleece blanket) in a safe spot near the nest or where you found them, (make sure you have prior permission from the property owner).
As long as mom can find them and feels safe, she will likely return to collect her babies. Make sure you give her space and keep an eye on the container from a distance, ideally inside hidden from view. You can play the sound of this video to help attract her attention so she can find the baby(ies). Nursing females nearby may adopt orphans if they hear their cries.
Keep pets and disturbances away, and give her the daylight hours to collect her young; if she hasn’t come by nightfall the baby(ies) will need to be kept safe for the night. Follow our Wildlife Capture Guide for details and contact us for next steps.