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Squirrels

As you are no doubt aware there are two species of squirrel living in the UK - the native red squirrel and the introduced grey. These pages primarily deal with grey squirrels as this is by far the more likely species you will encounter. Grey squirrels are often considered vermin but we believe that every animal has the same right to a safe and comfortable life. However, there are legal complications surrounding helping grey squirrels. It is illegal to rescue, treat, keep or release them. Because of this some organisations, including the RSPCA, will routinely euthanase any grey squirrel casualty. Always check with anyone you call that they are willing to treat a grey squirrel and won't put it to sleep.

You also need to be aware that squirrels can give a very bad bite when scared so need to be handled with extreme caution.

	When should I help?
	If the squirrel has been caught by a cat. It must receive antibiotic treatment within a few hours or the bacteria on the cats teeth may cause it to develop fatal septacaemia.
	If the squirrel has been attacked by a dog or hit by a car. It will need to be treated for shock and properly assessed for injuries.
	If an adult squirrel can be easily approached and does not try to run away
	A squirrel of any age with an obvious injury
	Any baby squirrel out of it's nest (unless you know the location of the nest and can safely return the baby).
	Squirrels in parks often approach people for food & may even climb up your leg. If an adult does this it is nothing to worry about, although it shouldn't be encouraged. In a baby this may be a cry for help.
	A squirrel which appears "frozen" or which is making a squawking noise. These are normal reactions to a shock or surprise.
	What Should I Do Next?

Any squirrel old enough to have it's eyes open needs to be handled with care. A baby can be picked up and placed into a secure box with a towel. Make sure the baby is kept warm and get help as soon as possible.

To pick up an adult squirrel cover it with a thick towel and try to "shuffle" it gently into a box turned on its side. That way you don't need to actually pick the squirrel up. If this isn't possible or the squirrel has injuries which doing this may make worse, use the towel to ensure the squirrel cannot see your hand before picking it up. Don't think for a moment that your average cardboard box will hold even the poorliest looking adult squirrel! If he decides to he will chew his way out, which can be a bit dodgy when you're driving him to the wildlife rescue. I've extricated more than one squirrel from behind someones brake pedal!! Try to find a cat basket or at least a very heavy duty box to put him into and give him a towel for comfort too.