Found A Squirrel?
Finding a baby squirrel alone can be worrying — but in many cases, the mother is nearby and will return. Reuniting with mom is always the best outcome when it’s possible.
Our team is here to guide you every step of the way
If the squirrel is injured, cold, or has been in contact with a person or pet, please call right away.
Found a Squirrel?
First, Check If It Needs Your Help
Quick Steps to Help
A gentle response gives young squirrels the best chance for survival. Find your situation below and follow the steps.
Looks okay? Attempt a reunion first.
If the squirrel is fully furred, alert, and free of visible injuries, the mother is likely close by. She will return — but only if the area feels safe.
- Stay completely away. Keep people and pets clear. Mothers will not approach if anyone is nearby.
- Set up a reunification box. Place the squirrel in a small box with a soft cloth at the base of the tree. Never leave it on bare ground — fire ants are a real danger. See guide →
- Play squirrel sounds. Baby squirrel distress calls (on YouTube) help the mother locate her baby faster.
- Check every 2 hours. Leave the box out until sunset, weather permitting.
- No return by sundown? Bring the box inside to a warm, quiet spot — then call us.
Cold, hurt, or exposed to a pet? Act now.
If the squirrel is cold, injured, or has been in contact with a dog or cat — even without visible wounds — it needs immediate care. Pet saliva can be fatal within hours.
- Pick it up carefully. Use gloves or a cloth and gently place it in a box lined with a soft towel.
- Provide warmth. Fill a cotton sock with uncooked rice, microwave 2 minutes, wrap in cloth, place in box. Never use an electric heating pad directly on the animal. See guide →
- Bring it inside. Keep it warm and quiet, away from pets and noise.
- Call us immediately. Do not offer food or water for any reason.
Did You Know
Quick Squirrel Facts
🌡️ Warmth Is Critical
Young squirrels can become weak quickly if cold, making warmth one of the most important factors for survival. Tips to help →
🌰 Squirrel Diet
Most squirrels eat nuts, seeds, grain and fruit — nuts being their favorite.
❄️ Squirrels Do Not Hibernate
A common misconception about squirrels is that they hibernate during the winter. While true that squirrels are rarely seen during extreme cold, this is because they remain near their nest where it is warm.
🐿️ Baby Squirrels
Baby squirrels weigh approximately one ounce at birth and are only about an inch long. They do not have hair or teeth and are virtually blind for six to eight weeks.
Your compassion makes healing possible
Every rescue and second chance begins with caring people like you. Your support helps provide medical care, safe rehabilitation, and the time wildlife needs to heal and return to the wild where they belong.
Together, we can protect and care for the wildlife that shares our community.