Squirrel Facts

Squirrels are not considered a rabies vector species like raccoons, bats and foxes. However, one should exercise caution when approaching any sick or injure wild animal.

Florida has two main seasons for babies but we do get them year around. The larger season is between late July and October. This is of course, hurricane season as well. The other time we get more babies is between January and April.

During the hurricanes of a few years ago we got in a lot of animals. Hurricane Frances brought in over 200 baby squirrels in one day. However, most of the animals in the care of this organization are here because of contact with man. Babies are frequently knocked out of trees when the tree is trimmed. Older babies and adults are at risk from roaming dogs and cats. Cars are also a constant danger for them. You can help by confining your pets and driving carefully when in an area where squirrels frequent.

Poison is another problem. If you must get rid of pests in your area please consider another method. Not only squirrels are effected by poison. Once ingested they die horrible deaths and if a hawk, owl or pet eats that animal secondary poisoning occurs.

If you find a baby please call to get instructions on how to best care for it or bring it to where a rehabber can take over its care. It is always best if the mother can raise her babies so we often will suggest placing the babies back where they can be reunited with mom, if at all possible. They must be watched though to make sure that no dogs, cats, hawks or other predators come along first.

Raising an orphaned squirrel is a wonderful experience if you have the time and resources available, but they rarely make good pets. Once they hit maturity most will bite, often hitting bone when they chomp down. Nothing in your home will be safe from their constantly growing teeth. Babies bond with their caregivers so it is better to get them to someone that will be able to raise them fully if you do not feel you are up for the task.
 

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