In Ontario, baby squirrels are typically born in the early spring, between late February and early April. This is when the weather begins to warm up and the days start to get longer.
During this time, the young squirrels are born in nests that are built high up in trees or in other elevated areas. These nests are often made of leaves, twigs, and other natural materials.
Squirrels Mating Time
Squirrels mate in the late winter, usually in February or March, which is just before the birth of their young. Eastern grey squirrels, one of the most common species of squirrels in Ontario, are known for their prolific breeding habits. Female grey squirrels can have up to two litters of young per year, with each litter usually consisting of 3-5 baby squirrels.
Growth Period
As baby squirrels grow, they start to venture out of their nests and explore their surroundings. This is when they often become a common sight at bird feeders, as they search for food to help them grow and develop.
While many people enjoy watching young squirrels at their bird feeders, it’s important to remember that squirrels can become a nuisance if they start to damage the feeder or steal food from other wildlife.
Eastern Grey Squirrel
Eastern Grey Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) is a common sight in many urban and suburban areas, where they have adapted well to human environments. While they can be fascinating to watch and cute to look at, they can also be quite irritating in several ways.
Squirrel Baby Season
The baby squirrel season in the USA typically occurs in the spring and summer months, when female Eastern Grey Squirrels give birth to their young. The exact timing can vary depending on the location and climate, but typically it begins in late winter or early spring and lasts through the summer months.
Mother squirrel usually gives birth to two litters of young each year, with each litter consisting of 1-6 babies called “kits” or “pups”. The first litter is typically born in February or March, while the second litter is born in June or July. The babies are born hairless, blind, and helpless, and are entirely dependent on their mothers for food, warmth, and protection.
It’s important to note that baby squirrels should not be taken from the wild or kept as pets. In many states, it’s illegal to keep native wildlife as pets, and attempting to care for baby squirrels without proper training and experience can be dangerous for both the squirrels and the humans involved. If you come across a baby squirrel that appears to be abandoned or in distress, it’s best to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance
Squirrels in Ontario
In Ontario, it’s important to remember that squirrels are protected under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, and it is illegal to harm or kill them without a permit.
If you have concerns about squirrels on your property, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife control service to help you deal with the issue in a humane and legal way.
Breeding Periods of Squirrel
The breeding periods of squirrels can vary depending on the species and location. Here are some general guidelines for a few common squirrel species in North America:
- Eastern Grey Squirrel: In the United States, Eastern Grey Squirrels typically mate in late December to early February and then again in May to June. The gestation period lasts around 44 days, and the female will give birth to a litter of 1-6 offspring.
- Red Squirrel: Red Squirrels typically mate twice a year, once in late winter or early spring and then again in mid-summer. The gestation period lasts around 38-39 days, and the female will give birth to a litter of 2-7 offspring.
- Fox Squirrel: Fox Squirrels breed once a year, typically in late winter or early spring. The gestation period lasts around 44 days, and the female will give birth to a litter of 2-5 offspring.
- Flying Squirrel: Flying Squirrels mate once or twice a year, depending on the species. The gestation period lasts around 40-45 days, and the female will give birth to a litter of 1-6 offspring.
Heading: Understanding Baby Squirrels – Everything You Need to Know About Squirrel Babies
When it comes to the animal kingdom, baby squirrels are some of the cutest and most fascinating creatures to observe. Squirrel babies are born in litters of 2 to 8, depending on the species, and are known as kits or pups.
They are born hairless, blind, and completely helpless, and rely on their mother’s milk for nourishment. As they grow, they start to develop fur and their eyes begin to open after 3-4 weeks.
Adult Squirrels
Squirrel mothers are fiercely protective of their babies, and will go to great lengths to keep them safe from predators and other threats. They build elaborate nests, often high up in trees, to provide a safe and warm environment for their young.
As the babies grow and start to become more independent, they will venture out of the nest and begin to explore their surroundings. This is when they start to learn important survival skills, such as how to climb, jump and forage for food.
Conclusion
In conclusion, baby squirrels are adorable and fascinating creatures that play an important role in the ecosystem. From their birth as helpless kits to their eventual independence, watching the growth and development of squirrel babies is a unique experience that can provide insights into the world of wildlife.
While it’s important to respect the natural behavior of squirrels and allow them to live in their habitats without interference, it’s also important to take precautions to avoid conflicts with humans. With patience and a little understanding, we can coexist peacefully with these beautiful animals and appreciate the wonder of nature. It is best to call the right person for the right job such that calling the Critter Guy.
