Red Squirrels

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Red Squirrels

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Contact Information
Contact jacque.blessington
Phone: 8165138965
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Country: United States

Species: American Red Squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)

Is rehabilitation complete?: yes

This animal has potential as a : static display animal

This animal is: captive reared

Age: 2 months

Reason for entering rehabilitation.:

3 (1.2) American Red Squirrels came to your rehab facility at different intakes within 2 days apart. They were found in a prominent and busy business area in the same general location which does not have habitat for squirrels. They were ~4 weeks old on entry. The primary issue with them is that we do not have Red squirrels in our state. It is presumed that they were nesting in a vehicle or trailer that was participating in a large Art Festival is that business area that attracted over 250 art vendors. Because, at this time, we are unable to identify which vehicle they may have traveled in, states that do have resident red squirrels are not able to approve releasing back to the wild. We are also not able to keep them as permanent display animals, because we feature Native Wildlife to our state and currently do not have the additional permits for this non-Native.

Days in care: 30

Issues developed while undergoing rehabilitation.:

The smallest animal came in last and was not as developed as the first two. She has developed some patchy fur loss that might be attributed to her development or other response to a nutrition need that is not being met. It is starting to come back in. All animals have been dewormed and monitored for ectoparasites and none have been determined. All animals eat well and are gaining weight and developing as anticipated. All are off formula at this time, per their preference over natural foods.

Body condition score (5 point scale as defined on https://nagonline.net/3877/body-condition-scoring/): 4

Can the animal express species-typical behaviors (e.g. eat appropriate whole foods, climb, perch, groom, dig, fly, swim, ambulate normally for species)?:

Yes. All can express species-typical behaviors within the space/habitat provided. They are ready to move into a larger space per their size and behavior.

Can the animal be handled without negative welfare affects?: yes

This is how the animal currently reacts when a frequent caregiver nears it (e.g. does it modify behavior, show signs of fear, agonism, habituation):

They are very used to being around people and are handled several times a day. They do display typical, older squirrel behavior in that they prefer to 'climb' and 'cling' to people versus being held. They have appropriate alertness and response to new sights and sounds, though at this time they have not displayed any 'alarm' behaviors or biting.

This is how the animal currently reacts when a stranger nears it (e.g. does it modify behavior, show signs of fear, agonism, habituation):

They respond essentially the same around new staff/volunteers as they do with those that have been caring for them.

This animal is currently house : with conspecifics

Will the animal need continuous medical care (e.g. medication)?: no

Physical health welfare assessment: good life

Mental/emotional health welfare assessment: good life

More Information

For additional information please contact Jacque Blessington at: Jacqueline.Blessington@kcmo.org 816-513-8965