Japanese Squirrels

Text Box: These large squirrels are the newest edition to Helens Little Critters. These large squirrels are fast and exciting pets. They stomp their feet on the ground or on their nest box when they are angry or want your attention. The males are solid back with a white belly and the females are black on top and have a red ring around their underside, along with the white belly. These babies will be handfed from 4 weeks old and ready to bond with their new homes.

Text Box: Japanese Squirrel Care and Facts: Average Lifespan: 10-12 Years Diet: A Japanese Ear-tufted Squirrel daily diet should consist of a quality Rodent Block and Large Parrot mix, fresh fruit and vegetables. Pecans and nuts are a favorite but should be limited to one as a daily treat. Calcium must be added to their diet. This can be accomplished with Rep-Cal or a similar product placed on the fruit. Size at Adulthood: Around 1 pound, length about 14 inches from head to tail Minimum Cage size: Ear-tufted Squirrels need a cage at least 5'x5'x5'. Heavy duty wire is recommended. Bar spacing should be no more than 1/2" wide. Provide plenty of non-toxic branches for them to climb on. A Large wooden nest box is a great sleeping area. Provide natural cotton bedding for nesting material. Bonding: It is important to acquire your baby squirrel at no more than 8 weeks of age and carry them in your shirt pocket or in a bonding pouch for several hours a days for at least two to three weeks.

Text Box: Frequently Asked Questions: Q:Do they have scent glands or a smell? A: No they do not have scent glands or a smell. Q: Do they require any vaccinations? A: No vaccinations are needed. Q: What is their general personality? A: Fast and curious, social, independent minded, bonds deeply to immediate family. Q: How are they with other pets? A: Generally they prefer just to stay with the humans, but can be curious about other pets. Might show some aggression when confronted with another intimidating animal. Q: Can I take my squirrel outside? A: No, your squirrel might jump off you and run up a tree. It is best to take your squirrel outside in a cage or kennel. Q: Will my squirrel bond only to one person? A: The squirrel will bond closely to those who care for it and are around it the first 6 months of life. The squirrel will be accepting of strangers if they are introduced to many strangers the first few months. Q: What other considerations are there for owning a Squirrel? A: There is a bonding time of the first few months of owning a squirrel where you must dedicate every day to bonding with your baby. Constant love and attention will make the best companions.

Do gliders bond only to one person?

It is a popular misconception that gliders can only bond to one person. In our experience, however, gliders, like people, can bond to those whose hearts are truly given to them.

How can I help my glider get used to me?

It is a good idea for your glider to get used to your scent and your voice. Place you gilder habitat in an area in which they will get used to you being around. Offer mealworms and other treats to let them know that you can be associated with good experiences. Don't look them directly in the eye, or get your face close to them. Make sure when you approach your gliders with your hands, that your fingers are close together, so you don't look scary! Be gentle, calm and patient, and your gliders will get used to you!

If I have two gliders will my glider bond with its friend instead of me?

No matter how many gliders you have, if you are truly their friend, they will bond to you just as much (or sometimes even more than), each other. You will soon become, to them, just an oversized member of their glider colony.