what to do with baby squirrels

If you find a baby squirrel, the best thing to do is to keep it where you found it, keep pets away, and observe it from a safe distance to see if the mother returns to collect it. If the baby squirrel is not injured or sick, it is likely that it simply needs help reuniting with its mother. If the baby squirrel is fluffed out and has a body longer than 6 inches, it is mature enough to survive without its mother. If the baby squirrel does not fit these criteria, try to locate the nest in nearby trees and place the baby inside an open box near the trunk of the tree. If its chilly outside or the baby isnt fully furred, place it in a shoebox or other small container with something warm underneath, like a hot water bottle, and something soft between the baby and the heating device. Do not give the baby squirrel food or water, as this can do more harm than good. If you have doubts about whether the animal needs human help, call a wildlife rehab group or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Whatever you decide to do, do not bring the animal home to rehabilitate it, as squirrels belong in the wild and may not survive without you later.