Squirrels are often described as frisky, energetic, fun animals to have around if they are not found in places that they really do not belong. Therefore, it is very important that you learn as much as you can about the squirrel and their babies.
By learning the habits and lifestyle of mother’s raising baby squirrels, you will know exactly what to expect if you see a litter of squirrels during breeding season. You will also learn answers to questions like, when do baby squirrels leave their nest?
So, let’s get started by exploring the world of baby squirrels and the process of getting them ready to survive on their own.
10 Different Types of Squirrels in the United States
First of all, it is important to note that there are 10 types of squirrels that are native to the U.S. Seven of the most common are listed as follows:
- Easter Gray Squirrel
- American Red Squirrel
- Fox Squirrel
- Abert’s Squirrel
- Western Gray Squirrel
- Arizona Gray Squirrel
- Douglas Squirrel
Each species is native to specific areas within the U.S. For instance, Wisconsin is home to 3 different species of tree squirrels, the red squirrel, the fox squirrel and the eastern gray squirrel.
Also, in this state, the mother squirrels typically have from 2 to 4 babies in their litter at least once or twice a year. The first litter of babies are normally born in the month of March or in the month of April, while the second litter of baby squirrels may be born in either the month of July or in the month of August.
When do baby squirrels leave the nest?
Now that you know a little about the different species and their birth months, here is some more information about when their babies actually leave the nest.
Baby squirrels are usually born with no hair. You can distinguish these animals from others by their pinkish bodies and dark toenails. And, once they are here, mother squirrels may build a nest in the crook of a tree.
These nests are made of mostly twigs and dry leaves, and they are often referred to as a drey. This is where the baby squirrels will be fed, cared for, and weaned. It is also important to note that the mother squirrel will build a nest in other places, too, including an attic in a home, if it is accessible to them.
The weaning process of a baby squirrel is about 10 to 12 weeks. Therefore, if the baby squirrels are healthy, it is time to leave the nest. This is also when they are fully furred, can see clearly, and able to survive on their own.
On the other hand, if the baby squirrels are still too weak or unhealthy, the mother squirrel will return them back to the nest by the scruff of their neck. So, the time of the year for leaving the nest can vary based on certain circumstances.
For instance, if the baby squirrel was born in the first week of August, they may leave the nest in the month of November (i.e. 12 weeks or 84 days after birth), which is the winter season.
Leaving the Nest is based on their Mating Season
As you can see above, the actual timing for leaving the nest is based on a number of factors. More importantly, the mating season for squirrels usually determines when baby squirrels will leave the litter.
For instance, every spring and fall, the squirrel populations will begin to grow. Even though mother squirrels may have as many as 9 babies each year, the maximum number in 1 litter is not more than 5.
The maximum number of five will keep moms busy enough, especially because they start the process of getting them ready to leave the nest right away.
When do baby squirrels leave the nest: Summary
Mother squirrels prepare baby squirrels to leave the nest. And, they will leave as soon as they are able to survive on their own.
The timing of leaving the nest, however, will depend on several different factors, including being able to see and eat without their mothers help. So, typical time frame is about 10 to 12 weeks or 84 days from their birth.
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