Squirrel

Wisconsin is home to several species of tree squirrels, including the Eastern Gray Squirrel, Fox Squirrel, and Red Squirrel. While there are similarities between each of these species, gray squirrels are one of the most commonly spotted tree squirrels in the state. They can often be seen foraging for food around homes and at backyard bird feeders. Female gray squirrels will utilize leaf nests, called dreys, along with tree cavities and man-made structures such as attics to raise their young. They may give birth to one or two litters in a year: the first typically in March/April, and the second in July/August. This means that young squirrels, called kits, may be encountered any time from spring through fall.

At birth, gray squirrel kits are about the size of a human thumb. Their eyes open when they are about 4 weeks old and at about 7 weeks, they begin to explore outside the nest area. Kits are not weaned until they are 9 weeks old, and they cannot survive on their own until they are at least 12 weeks old. A young squirrel about half the size of an adult, with a bushy tail, is old enough to be on its own.  

Tip: If you find a very young squirrel with its eyes closed, it has probably fallen from its nest. If the kit is not injured, it should be placed back in its nest, if it is safe to do so. If the kit cannot be safely placed back in its nest, place it at the base of the nest tree on a soft, ravel-free cloth (i.e., no loose strings) during daylight hours. There is a good chance the mother will find the kit and return it to the nest herself. Keep an eye on the young squirrel from indoors or from a distance so your presence doesn't prevent the mother from returning and so you can watch for possible predators.