When baby squirrels emerge from their nests for the first time, it marks a significant step in their journey toward independence. Many people are curious about their size and appearance at this stage, as well as the behaviors that indicate they are ready to venture out. Understanding these aspects provides insight into their natural development and helps distinguish between a healthy, exploring youngster and one that might need assistance.
Key Developmental Stages Before Leaving the Nest
A newborn squirrel, often called a kit or pup, begins its life completely dependent on its mother within the safety of the nest. At birth, these tiny creatures are typically only about one inch long and weigh around one ounce. They are born hairless, with their eyes and ears sealed shut, relying on maternal care for warmth and nourishment.
By two weeks of age, a faint peach fuzz of fur appears, and by three weeks, a thin coat of fur covers most of their body. Their ears begin to open around three to four weeks. At four to five weeks, their eyes open, allowing them to perceive their surroundings for the first time. Around this time, their lower front teeth also start to emerge. By six to seven weeks, they are fully furred, and their cheek teeth have erupted, preparing them for solid foods.
Defining Size and Appearance at Fledging
When baby squirrels first begin to leave the nest, they are between 8 and 12 weeks old, depending on the species and individual development. At this stage, they appear as miniature versions of adult squirrels, fully covered with dense fur, including a noticeably bushy tail. Their tails are proportionate to their bodies, aiding in balance and agility as they navigate branches.
At 7 to 8 weeks old, their body length, excluding the tail, is around 7 to 8 inches. While they resemble adults, they are still considerably smaller and lighter. At six weeks of age, they weigh between 150 and 250 grams. Adult squirrels weigh between 454 and 681 grams (1 to 1.5 pounds), indicating that fledglings are still some way from their mature size.
Life Immediately After Leaving the Nest
The initial departure from the nest does not signify complete independence for young squirrels; they continue to rely on their mother for several more weeks. Weaning, the transition from mother’s milk to solid foods, is complete around 10 weeks of age, but can extend up to 12 to 16 weeks.
During this period, the mother squirrel teaches her offspring survival skills. The young squirrels will explore nearby branches, practice climbing, and begin to learn how to forage for food, such as nuts and seeds. They also learn how to identify and evade predators. This learning process ensures they are prepared for an independent life.
Identifying When a Baby Squirrel Needs Assistance
It is common to see young squirrels on the ground or in low branches as they explore their environment, and this behavior does not always mean they are in distress. A healthy baby squirrel will appear active and alert, moving purposefully, and its parents may be nearby, even if not immediately visible. Squirrel mothers will often retrieve their young if they fall from the nest.
However, certain signs indicate a baby squirrel needs human intervention. These include visible injuries, lethargy, shivering or appearing cold, continuous crying for an extended period, or being covered in insects like flies. If a young squirrel approaches humans or pets without hesitation, it is a sign of hunger or illness. In such situations, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for guidance, as direct intervention, such as providing food or water, can cause more harm than good.