What to do if you find…
Squirrels
Caution. Every year, we remind folks to be extra careful before rescuing baby animals. If you’re sure they have lost their mother or if they are being stalked by predators or are in harm’s way, then bring them to us. If you’re not sure, then take a picture of the animal(s) and call us at 831-462-0726, and we can make that decision together.
How to rescue a baby squirrel
Orphan Alert. If you find one or more baby squirrels lying on the ground, they have most likely fallen from their nest and the mother may be nearby. It might be possible to reunite the babies with the mom which would be the best possible outcome.
If the baby or babies are injured or being stalked by a predator or the weather is poor, please immediately bring the baby or babies to Native Animal Rescue or the wildlife rescue center nearest you. See transport instructions below and click on the map below for directions to Native Animal Rescue.
If the baby or babies are uninjured, not being stalked by a predator, and weather permits, you can try to reunite babies with the mother following these steps.
- Gently touch the baby to see if it’s warm. If it is cold, it will need to be warmed up. Please call Native Animal Rescue at 831-462-0726 for advice on how to do this.
- Leave the baby or babies on the bare ground near where you found them or at the base of a nearby tree.
- With your cell phone near the baby and the volume turned up, click here to play squirrel baby cries. We recommend you stand back and out of sight.
- You can try this several times, but you don’t want the baby to get too cold or too hot, and you definitely don’t want to do this at night.
If your attempts to reunite the baby and mother are not successful, please take the baby to Native Animal Rescue or your nearest wildlife center. If you are uncomfortable handling the baby squirrel, or want advice, please call Native Animal Rescue at 831-462-0726.
How to transport a baby squirrel to Native Animal Rescue
- Place a cloth in the bottom of a box or other container with air holes. Carefully lift the baby and place it in the box or container.
- Close the box and bring it to Native Animal Rescue at 1855 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, following the directions below. Or take it to the nearest wildlife rescue center.
How to rescue and transport adult squirrels to Native Animal Rescue
Safety First. Whenever possible, wear thick gloves–leather is best–when handling mature squirrels. Thick towels can work as well. Get help from another person if possible.
Are you able and comfortable handling the sick or injured adult squirrel? If not, contact Native Animal Rescue at 831-462-0726 to request assistance.
- Place the squirrel in a kennel or a sturdy chew-proof box with ventilation holes.
- If you use a box, place the open side of the box over the squirrel, and gently slide a piece of cardboard underneath the box until the piece of cardboard is completely under the box.
- Secure the piece of cardboard to the box before lifting the box.
- Slowly and gently rotate the box until the piece of cardboard is on the top.
- Bring the injured squirrel to Native Animal Rescue.
- Click the map below for directions to Native Animal Rescue, 1855 17th street, Santa Cruz, CA.
