Reasons for Relocation
A mother squirrel’s decision to relocate her young is often a survival strategy. One common reason for moving is a perceived threat to the nest. This could be due to the presence of predators, such as hawks, owls, or even domestic cats, which might have discovered the nest’s location. Human activity, like tree trimming or construction noise near the drey, can also cause a mother to feel her litter is no longer safe.
Nest damage is another significant factor prompting relocation. Strong winds, heavy rain, or a falling tree branch can compromise the structural integrity of the drey, making it vulnerable to the elements or predators. In such cases, the mother will quickly seek out a more secure and intact shelter to protect her offspring.
Sometimes, a mother squirrel will move her babies in search of better resources. This could involve finding a location with a more abundant food supply, closer access to water, or simply a quieter, less disturbed area. Overcrowding in the current nesting site, or the discovery of a superior drey with better insulation or concealment, can also motivate a move.
The Process of Moving Young
When a mother squirrel decides to move her young, she undertakes the process with care and precision. She typically transports one baby at a time, carrying them gently in her mouth. The mother grasps the loose skin on the baby’s belly, which allows her to carry the infant without causing harm. This method ensures the baby remains secure and relatively still during transit.
The mother moves with purpose, often climbing trees and navigating branches with the baby securely held. Her movements are swift and direct, aiming to get the offspring to the new nest site as quickly as possible.
During the relocation, the mother remains vigilant, constantly scanning her surroundings for potential threats. She will make multiple trips between the old and new nests until all her young have been safely moved.
What to Do if You Find a Baby Squirrel
Discovering a baby squirrel on the ground can be concerning, but it is important to observe the situation before intervening. Often, a baby squirrel that appears to be alone is simply waiting for its mother to return, or may have fallen from the nest during her absence. It is advisable to watch from a distance for several hours, ideally from a window, to see if the mother comes back.
Signs that a baby squirrel truly needs help include visible injuries, such as bleeding or a broken limb, or if it is cold to the touch, indicating hypothermia. Persistent crying, the presence of insects crawling on it, or if it is found near a deceased adult squirrel, are also indicators of distress. If the baby is clearly in immediate danger, such as being in a high-traffic area, you can gently place it in a small, open box with some soft material, like an old t-shirt, and position the box at the base of the tree where it was found.
It is generally not recommended to attempt to care for a baby squirrel yourself. Wild animals have specific dietary and environmental needs that are difficult for an untrained individual to meet. Handling a baby squirrel excessively can also imprint human scent, potentially deterring the mother from retrieving it.
If, after several hours of observation, the mother has not returned or if the baby shows clear signs of injury or distress, the appropriate action is to contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals have the expertise and facilities to properly care for injured or orphaned wild animals, providing the specialized care needed for their survival and eventual release.