So we had a pretty intense storm, and I saw this little guy fall from a tree. He’s got a small cut on his mouth and his leg looks injured. I’m in a place where vets aren’t allowed to treat squirrels since it’s illegal to keep them, so what can I do here? I gave him some water and will try feeding him tomorrow. Any advice on food or care? I’ve read a bit and keeping him as a pet doesn’t seem like a great idea, but if his leg’s really messed up, what are my options? I wouldn’t mind taking care of him – I’ve handled exotic pets before – but it seems discouraged. If anyone’s had a pet squirrel or has tips, please share. Thanks!
edit: I’m in India and this is a Palm squirrel (funambulus).
Palm squirrels have unique needs, especially compared to squirrels here in the US. There’s actually a good resource in India on caring for orphaned Palm squirrels, might help you understand what they need and how they grow up. They also have contact info in case you need advice or someone nearby who could help. Even if they’re far from you, they might know someone closer to your area.
Can we see some more pics? For food, fruits and veggies are great, but go easy on the nuts. When they’re hungry, they’ll try whatever’s in front of them! If he’s hurt, he’ll need good nutrition to heal up, so keep his diet balanced.
Why are you waiting till tomorrow to feed him? If he can drink, he should be able to eat too.
It’s honestly sad that there are places that don’t support animal welfare. If I were you, I’d just take care of him quietly and plan to release him once he’s all healed up. Authorities probably won’t look into it too hard, and you’ll be helping him out.
@Reagan
I found him late in the evening and it’s now past midnight. He’s been drinking from a dropper, and we’re both kind of dozing off. Going to try feeding him first thing in the morning – probably fruits or nuts. Rehab at home seems to be his only shot. Any specific food you’d recommend?
@Mal
Nuts are a squirrel’s favorite, but be careful with peanuts – they love them, but they’re not too nutritious. Try things like pecans, walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts, just make sure they’re plain (no salt or flavors). Fruits and veggies are good too – carrots, apples, grapes, pumpkin. My own backyard squirrels go for nuts first but they nibble on veggies sometimes too.
Aris said:
If you’re in the US, there’s a resource called Animal Help Now (ahnow.org) – they list rehabbers by state.
I’m actually not in the US, so that’s a no-go for me.
Ah, got it. Sorry about that! Unfortunately, I don’t have other suggestions since I haven’t rehabbed a squirrel myself. Good luck with everything though!
Thanks for taking in the little one. Have you tried finding a wildlife rehabber? Let me know where you’re based, and I can try to find some contacts for you.
Miller said:
Thanks for taking in the little one. Have you tried finding a wildlife rehabber? Let me know where you’re based, and I can try to find some contacts for you.
Thanks for the quick reply. Sadly, in India, wildlife care is really lacking, especially for smaller animals like squirrels. They’re seen more as pests, so resources are slim. I’ll see if a nearby reptile center could help, but I’m not too optimistic. Any other tips in the meantime?
@Mal
Not too familiar with Palm squirrels myself, but I’d say start by keeping the wound clean – maybe rinse with saline or filtered water if you have any. Is he old enough to eat solids yet? You might also want to try making a small splint for his leg to keep it stable.
@Miller
Thanks, I’ll keep cleaning the wound with filtered water. He’s a Palm squirrel, not a newborn but not fully grown either. Planning to try solid food tomorrow and will share some pics if I can. Thanks for the help!
For food, fruits and veggies are great, but go easy on the nuts. When they’re hungry, they’ll try whatever’s in front of them! If he’s hurt, he’ll need good nutrition to heal up, so keep his diet balanced.
