Guides / Found a Baby Squirrel? What to Do First
Found a Baby Squirrel? What to Do First
Most babies found on the ground still have a mother nearby. Here's how to tell if one needs help and who to call.
If the baby is injured, bleeding, cold, covered in flies, or was brought in by a cat or dog, skip ahead and call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator now.
1. Give mom a chance
Squirrel mothers often move babies between nests and come back for one that fell. If the baby looks healthy and warm, keep people and pets away and watch from a distance for a few hours.
2. Keep it warm, dark and quiet
If you must hold it while you get help, put it in a small box lined with a soft cloth, in a quiet, dark spot away from pets and kids. Wash your hands after handling.
3. Don't feed it or give it water
Baby squirrels can inhale liquid and the wrong food can make them very sick. Leave feeding to a rehabber.
4. Find a licensed rehabber
Use Animal Help Now to find wildlife help near you, or call your state wildlife agency. See our Rescue & Help page.
5. Don't raise it yourself
In much of the US it's illegal to keep wild squirrels without a permit, and hand-raised squirrels often can't survive when released. A rehabber can raise it with other squirrels and release it properly.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. A local rehabber's instructions come first.