As someone passionate about squirrels, I have spent years observing and interacting with them around the world. After extensive research, I am confident that I can help you uncover what pregnant squirrels look like, plus show you video of a birth! In this blog post, I will share three distinct physical features that indicate a female squirrel is pregnant. Don’t miss the amazing birthing footage at the end – you won’t believe what these pregnant squirrels do!

Pregnant squirrels appear larger overall than non-pregnant ones, with a round or pear shaped belly. Notable physical features that are indicators of pregnancy include prominent teats, and a stomach that sits lower and may even touch the ground. Additionally, fur may look matted if the baby squirrels have already been born.

What Does a Pregnant Squirrel Look Like?

Understanding what a pregnant squirrel looks like is important to consider when observing wildlife or if one has taken up residence in your home. As they prepare to give birth, female squirrels can become increasingly territorial, so it’s best to understand the signs of pregnancy before approaching too closely.

Signs of a Pregnant Squirrel

Look for an enlarged abdomen – expectant squirrels will appear noticeably distended.
Check female mammals for nipples that appear larger than normal – this can often indicate pregnancy.
The squirrel may be busy gathering materials for her home, which could mean she’s planning to create a bigger or more complex nest than usual.
Keep your distance if you notice a pregnant squirrel behaving unusually; tampered tempers and defensive behavior may be signs that she’s going through dramatic changes in mood.

Behavioral Changes

Pregnant and nursing squirrels could display a shift in their demeanor, becoming more vigilant in securing resources for their nests and protective of their space. These mammals may even become more aggressive towards perceived interlopers.

Physiological Changes

If you’d like to determine if a squirrel is pregnant or nursing, look out for changes in her physique. The most noticeable sign will be an enlarged belly, which could point to the fact that she’s expecting kittens or has already delivered them. You may also observe her nipples growing larger, which usually indicates that the young have arrived.

False Signs of a Pregnant Squirrel

False signs of a pregnant squirrel can include increased activity and aggression, enlarged mammary glands, or nesting behavior. However, these are typically associated with other conditions such as seasonal changes in hormones, territorial aggression, and food availability. Therefore, it is important to look for the three definitive signs of pregnancy before determining if the squirrel is actually expecting!

When Squirrels Have Babies

Squirrels mate in the late winter and early spring months and can have up to six babies at a time. Female squirrels remain fertile for as long as they are sexually mature and labor for around three to four hours before giving birth. Baby squirrels stay with their mother for several months before dispersing to find their own territories.

How Long is a Squirrel Pregnant?

Pregnant squirrels typically have a gestation period of around 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, the female prepares for birth, gathering nesting material and adding extra fat to fuel the labor process. After giving birth, baby squirrels remain with their mother anywhere from 4-12 weeks, after which they disperse to find their own territories.

Are Squirrels Good Moms?

Squirrels make wonderful mothers! Female squirrels stay very protective over their babies and are excellent providers. They labor for a few hours to give birth, and afterwards they provide milk, warmth, and grooming to ensure their baby’s development. After several months of caring for their offspring, the mother will encourage them to disperse and find new territories. With such nurturing care, it’s no wonder that squirrels make excellent moms!

Where Do Squirrels Make Nests in Homes?

Tree squirrels usually make their homes in the hollow of trees, nestling between branches and in the dense foliage. But they are also known to inhabit attics and spaces within residential homes. Ground squirrels prefer to dig tunnels and burrows underground, while flying squirrels opt for nests built either aboveground or inside small tree stumps or crevices.

Homeowners may observe a influx of squirrels if their houses offer appropriate living conditions. Common signs include droppings, fur, and rubbing marks near entrances. If a homeowner suspects that squirrels have taken up residence within the walls of their house, it is important to take steps to remove them as soon as possible.

What Happens After the Babies Are Born?

At birth, baby squirrels are not yet equipped with sight or fur. It takes a few weeks for their eyes to open and start seeing, as well as for the light coat of fur to begin growing. The mother remains with her young for months until they are ready to become independent and search for a place to call their own. Eventually, the now-adult squirrels leave their family unit behind and spread out across the land.

Female squirrels can give birth up to eight times per year, with each litter averaging three or four babies at a time. Squirrels mate primarily in the late winter/early spring months and labor typically lasts three or four hours before giving birth.

What Do Squirrels Need to Live Comfortably in Homes?

Squirrels naturally gravitate toward certain elements that improve quality of life when invading human dwellings. These animals need an environment that’s conducive to nesting and rearing young—ideally one that provides food sources like nuts, seeds, fruits, berries, and insects nearby.

The presence of shrubs or trees not only provide shelter but also serve as escape routes should danger arise. Maintaining reasonable access points—such as open windows or holes—is essential for entering and exiting the home without detection.

Conclusion

How does a pregnant squirrel look like? Knowing what to look for when it comes to a pregnant squirrel is essential to being able to spot one in the wild. In addition to a rounder, pear-shaped belly and lower stomach, other signs of pregnancy include prominent teats and matted fur if the baby squirrels have already been born. So next time you come across an unfamiliar looking squirrel, remember these key factors so you can determine whether it is a pregnant animal or not.

So now that you know what a pregnant squirrel looks like, take some time and watch a birth video! The incredible process of having babies is fascinating and worth learning about. You may even be surprised by the extent of care a mother gives to her newborns. From providing warmth and protection to feeding them regularly — nothing beats witnessing such compassion firsthand!