Breeding Seasons for Grey and Red Squirrels
Taking preventative measures could help you reduce the risk of a squirrel infestation in your home. However, there are many things to consider, and it’s essential to know the breeding information for both grey and red squirrels. Here are a few factors to ponder:
Grey Squirrels
Grey squirrels are the most common squirrel in Southeastern Canada. Take a look at the breeding seasons, mating behaviours, and more for this type:
Breeding Season:
Usually, the grey squirrel has two breeding periods each year. The first one starts in February or April, and the second occurs in late summer (July through September).
In most cases, the gestation period is about 44 days for grey squirrels, and females often have two to five babies per litter.
Mating Behaviour:
The grey squirrel mating season happens twice per year: once in late summer/early fall and again in spring. During this time, the males become more active, engaging in courtship and chasing behaviours to attract the females. Expect to see acrobatic jumping displays and running through trees.
Gestation Period:
After a successful mating, the female grey squirrels have a gestation period of roughly 44 days, which is shorter than other mammals. The pregnant animal will prepare its nests, which are often located high in the trees, before giving birth to the babies.
Birth and Care:
Grey baby squirrels are called kits in Ontario and elsewhere. They’re born between April and May during the eastern grey squirrels’ first breeding season and August through September for the second one.
The litter often contains two to five kits, and they’re born blind, hairless, and dependent on their mothers for survival.
Mother grey squirrels diligently care for their newborns, offering milk, protection, and warmth. As the baby grows, they will open their eyes, develop fur, and begin venturing outside the nest. However, they don’t become fully independent until 10 to 12 weeks old and will still require their moms for guidance and nourishment.
Red Squirrels
Now that you’re fully aware of the mating and breeding habits of eastern grey squirrels, it’s time to focus on red squirrels and their habits in Ontario.
Breeding Season:
The red squirrel baby season is only in early spring or late winter; there’s no second breeding. They mate between February and March; gestation periods take about 31 days. Typically, you’ll see litters of three to seven babies.
Mating Behaviour:
Red squirrels have a longer breeding season compared to their eastern grey counterparts. They will mate between late winter and early summer.
People often notice a peak in activity in the early spring or late winter. Males establish their territories in old trees, using physical and vocal displays to attract the females.
Gestation Period:
After mating successfully, female red squirrels will have a gestation period of about 35 days. With such a shorter time frame, they could have multiple litters in one year if there are favorable conditions.
Most female red squirrels only have one litter per year, though they could have two (one in early spring and one in late summer).
Birth and Care:
Generally, red squirrel babies, called pups or kittens, are born between April and May during the main breeding season. There are often three to seven kittens, and they’re typically blind and hairless, relying on the squirrel mothers for food and nurturing. Moms usually provide grooming, protection, nursing, and around-the-clock care.
As the babies grow, they’ll become more active and explore their surroundings. Usually, they are weaned at 10 weeks to forage independently for food. Still, they stay close to their mother until they establish their own territory.
What Do Squirrel Babies Eat?
Baby squirrels have specific dietary requirements to support their development and growth. Their mother’s milk is the best choice. However, if you find one that’s been separated or orphaned from its mom, here are a few things to feed it:
- Formula – Pet stores generally have formulas designed for squirrels and other small mammals, though you can also find these products at your veterinary office.
- Puppy Milk Replacer or Goat’s Milk – If you can’t find the specialty formula, you could use a puppy milk replacer or goat’s milk instead. However, those options might not provide all the nutrients your baby squirrel needs.
- Solid Foods – You can gradually introduce solid foods into the mix when the baby squirrel develops its teeth. Things like baby cereal and soaked dog food are ideal.
What Do Red Squirrel Adults Eat?
Adult red squirrels tend to focus on survival skills, so they’ll eat many things. These include:
- Tree bark
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Insects
- Fruits/berries
- Pet food, if available
- Fungi
- Seeds
What Do Grey Squirrel Adults Eat?
Hungry grey squirrels eat the same things as their red counterparts, including:
- Insects
- Vegetation
- Fruits and berries
- Seeds
- Nuts
Grey squirrels absolutely love nuts, especially hickory nuts, walnuts, and acorns. Their jaws are strong enough to crack the hard shells. However, they often bury extra food and forget about it, meaning they help promote tree growth.
Final Thoughts on When Baby Squirrels Are Born in Ontario
Grey and red squirrels have varying breeding seasons, though they all tend to give birth in the fall or spring. If you notice adult squirrels around your yard, it’s important to ensure they stay out of your attic or crawlspaces. We offer professional squirrel removal services across Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent Ontario.
Ultimately, it’s wise to appreciate these little creatures when possible. However, it’s best to request wildlife removal services from Pro Trap Animal Removal if you find they’re a nuisance on your property. Ultimately, we handle all types of pests, including squirrels. Call 226-350-7378 today for a consultation
