huddling in release cage

[jfletcher]

I have aquired three greys awaiting release. I'm new to this and wonder why they keep huddling in the corner with their heads down, seemingly uninterested or unresponsive in moving. Please advise.

[Mars]

:wave123 :Welcome :wave123

What type/big of caging do you have them in?? Do they have a nest box or hiding spot? Where is the cage? inside or out? Is it quiet or noisey?

Tell us more and we will try to help. Pics would be good too. We always love pics :jump

[squirrel princess]

sounds like they need something to huddle in to feel safe and secure:)

[jfletcher]

It's not a big cage 3'x3'x4' with bark and wood for climbing and hiding under but they prefer the wire corner and won't be coaxed out.

[jfletcher]

:wave123 :Welcome :wave123

What type/big of caging do you have them in?? Do they have a nest box or hiding spot? Where is the cage? inside or out? Is it quiet or noisey?

Tell us more and we will try to help. Pics would be good too. We always love pics :jump

Only an air conditioner in the next room and some chipmunks that are domesticated, all inside

[Mars]

Grey squirrels will not hide under loose bark - they need a nest box. Even a carboard box will work as long as it is well sheltered from getting wet. Cut just a 4 inch door in the side and fill with dry leaves or a fleece blankie. They should come out when they feel secure. :)

[Mars]

You can also use Bach's Rescue remedy. This is found at health food stores. Put 3 to 5 drops in about a cup of water and that into a misting bottle. You can then mist the squirrels and the cage. This should help calm and relax them.:)

[jfletcher]

You can also use Bach's Rescue remedy. This is found at health food stores. Put 3 to 5 drops in about a cup of water and that into a misting bottle. You can then mist the squirrels and the cage. This should help calm and relax them.:)

What's in that stuff ???

I put abox in but the holes in the top

[Mars]

Can you flip the box on it's side. Squirrels feel more secure when protected from above. You could also drape the top of the cage with a sheet or table cloth until they feel more at home.

Rescue remedy is a floral essence product put out by Bach. It calms stress and it is safe to use with the animals as I discribed. :thumbsup

[TexanSquirrel]

:Welcome Good luck making the little ones feel safe and secure!

[Jackie in Tampa]

:Welcome How long have you had them and how old are they?
Can you post pics? What have they been eating? If you can tell us alittle bit about them, someone will be able to help you.:thumbsup
Thanks for helping them.:flash3

[Sciurus1]

I agree with Mars, if they have no nest box, just out in the open, with no where to hide, squirrels by instinct know this is not a good thing, especially when first put in a prerelease cage. Do you know how old they are presently?