Orphaned squirrels are among the most common patients admitted to AIWC each year. In 2026 alone, we have already admitted more than 63 squirrels representing several different species, including Eastern Grey Squirrels, Red Squirrels, Richardson’s Ground Squirrels, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels, and Northern Flying Squirrels.

While each species has unique dietary and housing requirements, all young squirrels arriving at AIWC depend on specialized nutrition, frequent feedings, and careful monitoring as they grow. The youngest patients may require formula feedings up to six times per day, while older squirrels gradually transition to species-appropriate diets and outdoor conditioning before release.

Compared to some of the other species we treat, squirrels are relatively inexpensive to feed. However, the sheer number of patients admitted each year means that the overall investment of staff time and resources adds up quickly.

The estimated food cost for a squirrel during rehabilitation is approximately $108. Staff time represents the largest expense, with daily feeding, monitoring, and habitat maintenance contributing an estimated $558–$1,116 per patient, depending on age and length of stay. Most squirrels remain in care for one to two months before they are ready for release. Overall, the cost to rehabilitate a single squirrel ranges from approximately $600 to $1,200.

These patients may be small, but their care requires significant time, attention, and expertise. Your support helps provide the nutrition, daily husbandry, and professional rehabilitation services needed to give orphaned squirrels a second chance in the wild.

Can you help support squirrel rehabilitation in 2026?