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Squirrels are fascinating to watch, whether they are darting across fences, chasing each other up trees, or burying their latest stash of nuts. One that visits my backyard regularly has a huge, fluffy tail and a knack for acrobatics, but his sharp claws remind me just how wild he really is.
My neighbor once joked about keeping him as a pet, which made me wonder: Do squirrels make good pets?
At first glance, it might seem tempting. Squirrels are part of the rodent family and have lived alongside humans for millions of years. They feed on nuts, fruits, and seeds, often nesting high in trees for safety and warmth. They become especially active in winter during their mating season, and their babies are undeniably adorable, but looks can be deceiving.
- Squirrels are wild animals, not domesticated pets: They have strong instincts to climb, chew, and explore, which makes them difficult to manage indoors.
- Caring for a squirrel is complex: They need specialized diets, large enclosures, and constant enrichment to stay healthy and safe.
- Legal restrictions apply: In many states and regions, it is illegal to keep a squirrel as a pet without a wildlife rehabilitation or exotic animal permit.
- They do not adapt well to captivity: Even hand-raised squirrels can become aggressive or destructive as they mature.
- Wildlife belongs in the wild: It’s safer and more humane to admire squirrels outdoors or support licensed wildlife rehabilitators instead.
Do Squirrels Make Good Pets? The Early Months
During their first few months of life, squirrels can appear surprisingly affectionate and dependent on humans. They easily bond when hand-fed, but this early attachment can create challenges as they mature.
What Happens as Squirrels Grow
- Rapid physical development: By 6 months old, squirrels have long, sharp teeth and claws capable of causing accidental injury to people, pets, or furniture.
- Behavioral changes: As they reach maturity, their natural instincts resurface. Squirrels may show aggression or agitation, especially during mating season.
- Risk of harm: Even if they mean no harm, squirrels simply are not suited to domestic life and can become unsafe to handle.
The Problem With Releasing Them Later
When owners realize their squirrel is no longer manageable, they often think about releasing it back into the wild. Sadly, this can be fatal. Hand-raised squirrels rarely survive on their own because they lack essential survival skills such as:
- Finding food and water
- Avoiding predators
- Establishing territory
- Seeking mates
The encouraging news is that rehabilitation is possible. With time and structured reintroduction programs, squirrels can learn to live independently again and thrive in their natural environment.
Making an Animal Wild Again
If you have raised a baby squirrel to around 5 or 6 months old and want to release it, the process must be handled carefully. The squirrel needs to transition from a pet-like state to a wild animal with the instincts required for survival.r.
How to Rehabilitate a Squirrel
- Do it gradually: Start by reducing human contact and introducing the squirrel to outdoor sights and sounds.
- Provide a safe enclosure: Let the squirrel practice climbing, foraging, and hiding from predators.
- Seek professional help: You can either rehabilitate the squirrel yourself (with guidance) or work with a licensed wildlife rehabber. Learn more from Mary Cummins’ guide on returning squirrels to the wild
Exceptions and Legal Considerations
Some species, such as flying squirrels, can be tamed under the right conditions, but this takes significant time, patience, and expertise. Read more about their care in this flying squirrel overview.
Even so, the process is unpredictable, and minor mistakes can lead to aggression or injury as the animal matures. Because of this, keeping a squirrel as a pet is not recommended.
Also, remember that many states and countries prohibit owning squirrels as pets. Always research local laws and animal welfare guidelines before considering adoption or purchase.
Also, remember that many states and countries prohibit owning squirrels as pets. Always research local laws and animal welfare guidelines before considering adoption or purchase.
For more guidance on responsible ownership, read Before Buying Exotic Pets, Please Do Your Homework First to understand the challenges and responsibilities that come with keeping wild or exotic animals.
Fun Facts About Squirrels
- The average squirrel litter produces four offspring.
- Females breed only once with a male and never mate with that same partner again.
- Baby squirrels are born blind, toothless, and hairless for up to eight weeks.
- Tree squirrels do not hibernate.
- A squirrel’s brain is about the size of a walnut.
- Male tree squirrels are the cleanest rodents, spending twice as long grooming as females.
- A squirrel’s incisors grow about six inches per year.
Check out this video as a curious cat watches a furry visitor:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do squirrels bond with humans?
Squirrels can form temporary bonds with humans who feed or raise them, but they remain instinctively wild and independent.
Do squirrels like to be petted?
Most squirrels do not enjoy being petted, as they are naturally skittish and may react defensively when touched.
Can you tame a squirrel?
You can partially tame a squirrel with consistent care and food, but it will never become fully domesticated or safe as a household pet.
Are pet squirrels high maintenance?
Yes, pet squirrels are high maintenance because they require constant attention, specialized diets, and secure enclosures to prevent destructive behavior.
References
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