Black Squirrel Pet Care: Housing, Diet, and Health Tips

Mostly animal lovers are very enthusiast about black squirrels keeping as a pet because this creature is uncommon and fascinating. Despite the fact that black squirrel are typically wild creatures, some individuals think about keeping them as pets under specific conditions.

Black squirrel are rare species of gray squirrels and as a pet requires an expert knowledge for their environmental, nutritional and behavioral requirements.

Here's all guide that you need to know if you're thinking about owning a black squirrel as a pet.

Understanding Black Squirrels as Pets

It is important to understand before introducing into your house that black squirrels are not domesticated creatures.

Due to high energy levels and wild instincts like smoky flying squirrel, this specie  black squirrels are also difficult to care for in a domestic environment. Furthermore, it is illegal to keep wild squirrels as pets in several areas. A local wildlife authority should always be consulted before thinking to adopt a squirrel.

Housing and Environment of black squirrel

Cage Requirements

you need to provide a secure and spacious enclosure If you plan to keep a black squirrel as a pet.

Here are some key factors to consider the cage or enclosure:

• Size: Since all type of squirrels enjoy climbing and jumping, an outdoor aviary or a large multi-level cage is best.
• Materials: To prevent chewing and escape, the cage or enclosure should be constructed of metal wiring.
• Bedding: For bedding of squirrels, use soft materials such as fleece, hay, or shredded paper.
• Branches & Platforms: Set up hammocks, perches, and climbing frames to resemble their natural environment.

Hiding Spaces: Give them little hiding places where they can go if they feel threatened.

Can black squirrels keep with other squirrels in cage?

Yes, black squirrels can keep with other squirrels as by nature squirrels are territorial.  But conflict is possible if they feel threatened for space or food.

Can black squirrel be housed with grey squirrels?

If you want to keep black squirrels with grey squirrels together in cage then you should know that it depends on space available, temperature and species. If it introducing black squirrel with other, ensure the cage is large and airy with separate food pots and resting area. To prevent conflict and aggression, keep monitoring the squirrel’s interaction.

Do black squirrels get stressed in cages if they keep with other squirrels?

As squirrels are territorial in nature, they get less stress. Sometimes, stress might be created if cage or enclosure have less space or food competition create between them. So, to avoid stress provide them enough individual accommodation.

Lighting and Temperature

Moderate temperatures are ideal for black squirrels. Make sure their enclosure has access to natural light and is in a well-ventilated, draft-free space. If you choose to house them outside their enclosure should be weatherproofed that protect them from extreme atmospheric conditions.

Nutrition and Diet

Natural Diet of black squirrel in Wild

Nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and occasionally insects make up the varied diet of black squirrels in the wild. Take into account the following to replicate this diet:

• Seeds and Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pecans, and sunflower seeds (unflavored, unsalted).
• Fresh Fruits: Berries, grapes, bananas, and apples in moderation.
• Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and carrots.
• Protein Sources: Eggs, mealworms, and a little fried or cooked chicken.
• Calcium Source: To keep teeth and bones strong of squirrels, use crushed eggshells or cuttlebones.
• Feeding Schedule of squirrel

Give your pet squirrel a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein sources twice a day. Use a small animal water bottle or a sturdy bowl to keep fresh water on hand at all times.

Enrichment Behavioral care

Socialization

Black squirrels are social animals and naturally curious. Engage with them on a daily basis to avoid tension and boredom. But be aware that if a squirrel is frightened or overstimulated, it may bite. Respect their boundaries and treat them with gentleness at all times.

Toys and Activities

To maintain your squirrel's mental, physical interest and health, you can give them:

• Chew Toys: give them Wooden blocks, untreated branches, and chewable toys to play.
• Exercises Wheels: A solid-surface wheel (no wire mesh) for running.
• Foraging Activities: Make various Hide treats in small puzzles or inside hollowed-out logs.
• Climbing Areas: Install some Ropes, branches, and hanging tunnels to encourage exploration of black squirrels.

What to do for black squirrel to amuse and active in a cage?

To keep your black squirrel entertain and physically strong in cage, give them a variety of small activities and chewable toys. These activities help them to keep encouraging in their natural behavior like chasing, climbing, foraging and chewing. Install rotating toys, soft climbing ropes and wooden branches.

Veterinary Care and health of black squirrels

Common Health Issues in squirrels

Black squirrels are susceptible to various health problems, including:

• Malnutrition: Due to an improper diet, black squirrels may suffer weak immune system, low fur quality and various health issues.
• Dental Problems: As squirrels use their teeth to gnaw or chew food, malnutrition may weak their teeth and can cause the problem to eat food properly.
• Parasites: In black squirrels mites, fleas, and intestinal worms can cause the weak immune system, anemia, low blood production and neurological problems.
• Respiratory Infections: Often respiratory allergy and infection that caused by drafts, dust, or improper hygiene in all types of squirrels.

Regular Checkups Routine

Since squirrels are tropical pets, finding a vet with experience in squirrel care is compulsory. Regular health checkups help and monitor your squirrel for signs of illness, such as weight loss, lethargy, or abnormal fur conditions.

Legal Considerations of squirrels

Before keeping a black squirrel as a pet in your house, check your local laws and regulations. Many countries and states prohibit the ownership of wild squirrels due to conservation laws and ethical considerations. Always obtain the necessary permits if required.

Can I release my pet black squirrel back to wild?

Releasing a pet squirrel back into wild in not recommended due to some important factors like survival skills which are necessary. As pet squirrels not know how to find food, building nests and avoid to predators. Pet squirrels are human depended and may not expose to same disease which are wild squirrels.

what to do if one cannot longer care of pet squirrel?

If you cannot care longer of your pet squirrel then you should contact the wildlife rehabilitation center or any Petcare rescue center. your pet handed over them to reintroduced the wildlife slowly or may keep as a pet at their center.

Conclusion

Caring for a black squirrel as a pet is a challenging yet rewarding experience. These high-energy animals require proper nutrition, a spacious environment, and plenty of mental stimulation. However, their wild instincts and potential legal restrictions should be carefully considered before adopting one. If you are prepared to meet the black squirrels needs, you can provide a happy and healthy home for a black squirrel while ensuring their well-being and safety, then go ahead and own a little cute squirrel.