If you're like me, squirrels are a part of your daily life. They're fun to watch, chasing each other around in the grass, climbing trees, and storing nuts. They're frustrating, running into the road with no notice of oncoming traffic (I can't tell you how many times I've tried to reason with a seemingly suicidal squirrel as he ran in front of my car). And sadly, they are considered a pest by many when they find their way into attics or in between walls and nest.

Preferred habitat – Grey squirrels are tree dwellers, but will approach nearby home gardens for food. They are easily spotted at the base of trees and disappear up the trunks if disturbed.

Diet – Most, but not all, squirrels are vegetarian. Nuts, acorns, seeds, fruits, & buds are the main foods in a squirrel's diet. Flying squirrels will eat bird eggs, baby birds, and insects.

Breeding habits – Females give birth twice a year to litters of between 3 & 7 kittens. They nest high in trees.

As squirrels are a member of the rodent family, it may not be surprising to hear that they get a bad rap; like their rat and mouse cousins, they are misunderstood. Holley, NY has an annual squirrel-shooting contest called "Squirrel Slam." The event raises money for the local fire department, but at what cost? Not only are the squirrels killed by children and adults alike, but the biggest squirrels earn their killers "cash and gun prizes." Friends of Animals sheds some light on the sheer insanity of it all by calling the event for what it is: "a disastrous, convoluted idea."

Squirrels are just another example of animals who are made to suffer as a result of human interference. The bright side to things is that we can help if we come across an animal who needs it.

Please note: I am not saying we should keep squirrels as pets. I am also not saying we should imply ourselves we we are not needed. But it's important to be aware of the proper steps if a situation arises, and spring is the time of year where you may come across just such a situation.

The most important thing to remember whenever you come across a free-living animal is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who will best be able to care for the animal until it's ready to be returned to the wild.

What to do if you find an injured baby squirrel

What to do if You Find an Injured Baby Squirrel | Your Daily Vegan
  • Look for the nest, or the siblings.
  • Look for predators, dogs and cats or other dangers.
  • Look for signs of injury.
  • Handle the baby as little as possible, using a soft cloth such as a washcloth or flannel. Place the baby in a protective container with a soft, clean cloth.
  • Keep the baby warm: this is especially important if he has little or no fur.
  • Don't feed the baby; wildlife rehabilitators use a special formula. Just as humans shouldn't be drinking cow's milk, neither should squirrels!
  • Look for the mother, who could be trying to find her kittens. If you spot her, place the container where she can see and access it. Remember to keep the area safe and watch out for predators!

What to do if you find an injured juvenile or adult squirrel

What to do if you find an injured? | Your Daily Vegan
  • Look for signs of injury. Common causes of injuries include being hit by a car, falling from a tree, being attacked by another animal, and poisoning. Symptoms of head trauma or poisoning may include listing to the side, walking in circles, looking/acting dizzy or bleeding from the nose or the mouth.
  • If the squirrel is hurt, handle with care: squirrels aren't naturally aggressive, but can claw or bite to avoid capture and have sharp teeth and strong jaws. Wear thick gloves for protection.
  • Throw a towel over the squirrel and scoop him up to put in a box or cage. There are animal cages with detachable bases that can be used to capture a squirrel, similar to how you would catch an insect in a cup and slide something underneath.
  • Don't hold or pet the squirrel.
  • Provide a soft bed (an old shirt will do)
  • Keep the squirrel warm
  • Place the box/cage in a quiet area away from other animals.

Get professional help

It bears repeating: No matter the age of the squirrel, you should always contact a professional such as Squirrelmenders once you've rescued the animal from any immediate danger (or determined that you cannot).