"sleeping red squirel"

[kathydelhi]

Hi,
I am posting my question in this area because I am not sure how to navigate your site. I found a red squirrel several days ago. It appears to be uninjured but is sleeping. Could it be hybernating? We have already had freezing weather and snow. I am unsure where to go with this. We are sure the squirrel is not dead. My husband wants me to gather some nuts from out doors and then put the squirrel under some leafs for protection. Everything I have found on the web says that red squirrells do not hybernate. Thanks, Kathy

[rippie-n-lilgirlsmom]

I have heard they can sleep for several days when it is cold outside. Is it still outside where exactly do you see it? I would still give it some nuts, usually squirrels nests are high in trees & you cant see them.
Dont try to move it, if you give it nuts only give store bought, non salted like pecans or wallnuts.
This has me puzzled is it on the ground or?

[island rehabber]

If it is sleeping inside a nest or enclosure then it is probably just staying warm....if it is visible, or unprotected, it very well may be ill.....

[Alaskan Squirrel Cam]

If it is sleeping inside a nest or enclosure then it is probably just staying warm....if it is visible, or unprotected, it very well may be ill.....

I agree with Island rehaber, they will sleep for short periods of time out in a protected area but never for any length of time. I suspect he's either sick or wounded in some way. Overnight they will nest up for sure and they do not hibernate at all.

bob