Introduction
Imagine stumbling upon a tiny, helpless creature – a newborn squirrel, separated from its mother and seemingly lost. Your heart melts, and the immediate instinct is to help. But assisting these vulnerable animals requires knowledge and dedication. Newborn squirrels are entirely dependent on their mothers for survival, relying on her not only for warmth and protection but also for crucial nourishment. Providing the right kind of nourishment is absolutely vital for their survival and healthy development. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of how to properly feed and care for a newborn squirrel, covering everything from selecting appropriate newborn squirrel food to establishing a successful feeding schedule. Remember, while well-intentioned, attempting to raise a wild animal comes with significant challenges. Contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator is always the best first step, ensuring the squirrel receives expert care and has the greatest chance of successful rehabilitation and release back into its natural habitat. They are equipped to provide specialized care that often exceeds what a well-meaning individual can provide.
Identifying a Newborn Squirrel in Need
Before attempting to care for a squirrel, it’s crucial to accurately identify whether it is truly a newborn in need of intervention. Distinguishing between a newborn and a juvenile squirrel can make a significant difference in the care approach. A true newborn squirrel typically exhibits several telltale signs. Its eyes will be closed, and its ears will be folded down against its head. It will likely have very little fur, perhaps just a sparse covering, and its size will be noticeably small. Juvenile squirrels, on the other hand, will have their eyes open, fully developed ears, and a thicker coat of fur.
Determining when to intervene is equally critical. Not every squirrel found alone needs rescuing. Sometimes, the mother is simply foraging for food and will return shortly. Signs that a newborn squirrel definitively needs help include visible injuries such as cuts or broken limbs, obvious weakness or lethargy, being orphaned (if the mother hasn’t been observed in the area for several hours), and feeling cold to the touch. If a squirrel displays any of these signs, it is most likely in distress and requires immediate assistance.
Important Consideration Regarding Wildlife Care
It is paramount to reiterate the importance of contacting a qualified wildlife rehabilitator before attempting to care for a newborn squirrel. These professionals possess the expertise, resources, and often the legal permits necessary to provide appropriate care. Raising wildlife without the proper knowledge can be detrimental to the animal’s well-being and may even be illegal, depending on your location. Prioritize connecting with a rehabilitator.
Preparing the Feeding Supplies
Once you’ve determined that a newborn squirrel requires assistance and have contacted a rehabilitator (or while awaiting their guidance), you can begin preparing for feeding. Gathering the right supplies is essential. You’ll need small syringes, ideally one or three cubic centimeter sizes, without the needle, of course. These are perfect for delivering small, controlled amounts of formula. The most important supply is a suitable milk replacer; puppy or kitten milk replacer, often sold under the brand name Esbilac, is the most appropriate choice. Also, assemble small, soft cloths for cleaning the squirrel after feeding and a heating pad or another safe heat source to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature.
Maintaining strict hygiene is vital. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling the squirrel or any of its supplies. Sterilize the syringes and any other feeding equipment regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
The squirrel also needs a safe, warm environment. A cardboard box lined with soft, clean cloths makes an excellent temporary home. Place the box on top of a heating pad set to a low setting, ensuring the squirrel has the option to move away from the heat if it becomes too warm. Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for the survival of a newborn squirrel, as they are unable to regulate their own body temperature effectively.
Choosing the Right Newborn Squirrel Food
Selecting the correct newborn squirrel food is perhaps the most critical aspect of caring for an orphaned baby squirrel. Cow’s milk is absolutely unsuitable for squirrels and can cause serious digestive problems, even death. Puppy or kitten milk replacer, such as Esbilac, closely mimics the composition of a mother squirrel’s milk and provides the essential nutrients the baby needs.
Carefully follow the instructions on the puppy or kitten milk replacer packaging to mix the formula. Consistency is key. Too thick, and the squirrel will have difficulty swallowing; too thin, and it won’t receive enough nutrients. Make sure to use clean, preferably distilled water when mixing the formula.
While Esbilac is the preferred choice, there are very few alternatives. In a pinch, a homemade formula consisting of goat’s milk, heavy cream, and a small amount of plain yogurt can be used, but this should only be considered a temporary solution until proper milk replacer can be obtained. The precise recipe is not widely available and should only be attempted under the guidance of a wildlife rehabilitator, emphasizing that Esbilac remains the best and safest option.
Ensure you avoid providing the newborn squirrel with toxic or harmful foods. Human milk replacers are not suitable and can be detrimental to their health. Never give the squirrel any solid foods until it is old enough to digest them properly.
Feeding Techniques that Save Lives
The way you feed a newborn squirrel is just as important as what you feed it. Proper feeding techniques can prevent aspiration pneumonia, a potentially fatal condition. Always hold the squirrel upright, mimicking the natural nursing position. Never, ever feed a squirrel on its back, as this drastically increases the risk of aspiration.
Gently insert the tip of the syringe into the corner of the squirrel’s mouth. Administer the formula slowly and steadily, allowing the squirrel to suckle at its own pace. Avoid squirting the formula directly into its throat, as this can cause choking. Patience is essential.
Learn to recognize the signs of satiety. The squirrel will typically refuse to suckle, turn its head away, or even fall asleep when it is full. Do not force feed the squirrel.
After each feeding, gently burp the squirrel by patting its back, just as you would with a human infant. This helps to release any trapped air in its stomach. Finally, gently wipe the squirrel’s face with a damp, soft cloth to remove any spilled formula. This prevents crusting and irritation.
Feeding Schedule and Formula Amounts
The frequency and amount of formula required will vary depending on the age and size of the newborn squirrel. Very young squirrels, those with their eyes still closed, will need to be fed every two to three hours around the clock, including overnight feedings. As the squirrel grows, you can gradually increase the intervals between feedings.
The amount of formula to offer per feeding also increases as the squirrel matures. Start with small amounts, perhaps one or two cubic centimeters per feeding for a very young squirrel, and gradually increase the amount as the squirrel’s appetite grows. Monitoring the squirrel’s weight and overall health is the best way to determine if it is receiving adequate nutrition. If the squirrel is gaining weight steadily and appears alert and active, it is likely receiving enough food.
Remember that the frequency of feedings, amounts, and progress should be discussed with your local wildlife rehabilitation expert. Your care may be guided by their recommendations and observations.
Transitioning to Solid Foods
Once the newborn squirrel reaches a certain age, typically around five to six weeks, it will begin to show signs that it is ready to transition to solid foods. These signs include teeth coming in and showing increased interest in the things around it, or in food other than formula.
Start by introducing soft solid foods, such as mashed avocado or well-softened fruits like bananas or berries. Commercial squirrel blocks, designed to meet the nutritional needs of squirrels, are also a good option.
Gradually reduce the amount of formula while increasing the amount of solid food offered. The transition should be slow and gradual to avoid digestive upset. Continue to offer formula until the squirrel is eating solid food consistently and gaining weight appropriately.
When offering solid foods, it’s important to choose safe and appropriate options. Nuts, in moderation, are a good source of protein and fat. Offer a variety of vegetables and fruits. Avoid processed foods, sugary treats, and foods high in salt, as these can be harmful to squirrels.
Potential Problems and How to Address Them
Despite your best efforts, problems can arise when caring for a newborn squirrel. Aspiration pneumonia, as mentioned earlier, is a serious concern. Prevent it by feeding the squirrel slowly and in an upright position. If you suspect the squirrel has aspirated, seek immediate veterinary care. Signs of aspiration pneumonia include difficulty breathing, coughing, and a rattling sound in the chest.
Dehydration is another common problem. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, dry gums, and decreased skin elasticity. If you suspect the squirrel is dehydrated, offer small amounts of Pedialyte, an electrolyte solution, between feedings.
Constipation can also occur. You can often relieve constipation by gently massaging the squirrel’s abdomen.
Metabolic bone disease, or MBD, is a serious condition that can result from inadequate calcium intake. Ensure that the milk replacer you are using is properly formulated to provide sufficient calcium.
Milk after the teeth are in can cause dental issues, causing decay and other infections in the mouth.
Release Considerations: Setting the Squirrel Free
The ultimate goal of caring for a newborn squirrel is to release it back into the wild. Before releasing the squirrel, it’s essential to prepare it for life in its natural environment. Gradually acclimate the squirrel to the outdoors by spending time with it outside in a safe enclosure. Teach it to forage for food by scattering nuts and seeds around its enclosure.
There are two main approaches to releasing a squirrel: a soft release and a hard release. A soft release involves providing the squirrel with a nest box and supplemental food for a period of time after it is released. This allows the squirrel to gradually adapt to its new environment. A hard release involves simply releasing the squirrel into the wild without any further assistance. The best approach will depend on the individual squirrel and the availability of resources.
Before releasing the squirrel, check with your local wildlife authorities regarding any permits that may be required.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Care
Caring for a newborn squirrel is a challenging but rewarding experience. Providing proper care and feeding is essential for the squirrel’s survival and well-being. However, it’s important to remember that the best course of action is always to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, as they possess the knowledge and expertise to provide the best possible care. Attempting to raise a wild animal requires significant dedication and a willingness to seek professional guidance. Always prioritize the squirrel’s well-being and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations. Your commitment to responsible care can give a newborn squirrel a second chance at life in the wild. Ultimately, the goal is to give these little creatures a chance to thrive where they belong – in nature.
