Wild Side Wild Side (May 04, 2005)

Tips from Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA wildlife supervisor Rebecca Allen

Rebecca Allen answers questions about living with wildlife. E-mail her at rallen@PeninsulaHumaneSociety.org or call 340-7022, ext. 340.

Q. I've noticed more baby squirrels on the ground. Are they OK to be on their own, or should I bring them in to the Peninsula Humane Society's Wildlife Rescue Center?

A. Our volunteers are hard at work raising young squirrels that have been injured or orphaned. Normally, baby squirrels stay in the nest seven to eight weeks after birth. If you see a baby squirrel out of its nest, check to see if the mother is around. If the eyes are open and the squirrel appears to be healthy, it's probably OK to be exploring the world on its own. If the eyes are still closed, or if the squirrel seems injured, bring it in as soon as possible to the Wildlife Center. For more information, check www.PeninsulaHumaneSociety.org. The PHS/SPCA Wildlife Care Center sees 4,000-5,000 native wildlife "patients" each year. The center's work depends on volunteers and donor contributions.

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