If you’ve ever spotted squirrels in your yard or local park and wondered when squirrels have babies, you’re not alone. Understanding their breeding patterns can help you know when to watch for baby squirrels and how to avoid disturbing them.
Squirrel Breeding Season
Squirrels have two main breeding seasons each year, which usually depend on the climate and region:
- Late Winter / Early Spring – Around January to March
- Summer / Early Fall – Around June to August
These breeding periods ensure that babies are born when food is plentiful, giving them the best chance to survive.
When Do Squirrels Have Babies? Breeding Seasons
| Squirrel Species | Breeding Months & Average Litter Size |
|---|---|
| Gray Squirrel | Breeding: Jan–Mar & Jun–Aug; Litter Size: 2–6 babies |
| Red Squirrel | Breeding: Jan–Mar & Jun–Aug; Litter Size: 3–7 babies |
| Flying Squirrel | Breeding: Jan–Mar & Jun–Aug; Litter Size: 2–4 babies |
| Fox Squirrel | Breeding: Jan–Mar & Jun–Aug; Litter Size: 2–5 babies |
| Southern Flying Squirrel | Breeding: Jan–Mar & Jun–Aug; Litter Size: 2–4 babies |
How Long is the Gestation Period?
Once a female squirrel is pregnant, the gestation period usually lasts:
- Gray squirrels: About 44 days
- Red squirrels: Around 33–35 days
- Flying squirrels: Roughly 40 days
After this period, the female gives birth to her babies, which are often called kits or pups.
How Many Babies Do Squirrels Have?
The number of babies varies by species, but typically:
| Squirrel Species | Average Litter Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gray Squirrels | 2–6 babies | Most common in North America |
| Red Squirrels | 3–7 babies | Usually in dense forests |
| Flying Squirrels | 2–4 babies | Nocturnal and secretive |
Where Do Squirrels Give Birth?
Squirrels usually give birth in nests called dreys. Dreys are:
- Made of leaves, twigs, and moss
- Built high in trees for safety
- Used to protect the young until they are strong enough to leave
Baby squirrels are blind, hairless, and completely dependent on their mother at birth.
When Do Baby Squirrels Leave the Nest?
- Baby squirrels start to open their eyes around 3–4 weeks old.
- They begin to explore outside the nest at 8–10 weeks old.
- By 3 months, most squirrels are fully independent and can survive on their own.
FAQs
Q1: When do squirrels usually give birth?
A1: Mostly in spring and summer.
Q2: How many times a year do squirrels breed?
A2: 1–2 times per year, depending on species.
Q3: What is the average litter size for squirrels?
A3: Usually 2–8 babies per litter.
Q4: Do gray squirrels have babies at the same time as red squirrels?
A4: Their timing can differ slightly by species and region.
Q5: How long is a squirrel’s pregnancy?
A5: About 44 days.
Q6: Can squirrels have babies more than once a year?
A6: Yes, some species can have two litters annually.
Q7: At what age do squirrels start reproducing?
A7: Around 9–12 months old.
Q8: Do flying squirrels have smaller litters than ground squirrels?
A8: Yes, flying squirrels usually have fewer babies.
Q9: Are there regional differences in squirrel breeding seasons?
A9: Yes, breeding times vary by climate and location.
Q10: How can you tell when a squirrel is pregnant?
A10: Swollen belly and nesting behavior are signs.
Q11: Do baby squirrels stay in the nest after birth?
A11: Yes, for about 6–10 weeks.
Q12: How long until baby squirrels leave the nest?
A12: Typically 6–10 weeks after birth.
Q13: Do male squirrels help care for babies?
A13: No, males do not participate in childcare.
Q14: Can you feed orphaned baby squirrels safely?
A14: Yes, with proper formula and guidance.
Q15: Are there any threats to newborn squirrels in the wild?
A15: Predators, harsh weather, and food scarcity.
Key Takeaways
- Squirrels usually have babies twice a year: winter/spring and summer/fall.
- Baby squirrels are born blind and hairless, fully dependent on their mother.
- By 3 months, they leave the nest and start surviving independently.
- Always observe from a distance to avoid disturbing them.