2 baby squirrels

[gwen]

Is it normal for 2 baby squirrels (3-4 week) to sleep on their back with their belly exposed? I am wondering if the blankets, lamp (regular not heating), and heating pad (on low) are too much? I saw to get them warm, but I am worried I am doing too much. The heating pad is outside and they are in a cardboard box. How do I make sure they are the right temperature?

Thanks. Gwen

[Jackie in Tampa]

container should be half on half off so they can leave the heated area...
My optimum situation is a fist sized warm spot, as big as my hand'ish...just warm...
sometimes you have to monitor to get it just right...put a towel between box and pad maybe.
I use baby recieving blankets and a sterlite container with holes drilled in lid and up high on sides, sometimes card board will dehydrate wee tinys.

no light needed...
:worthless


:Welcome :wave123

[Melody_S]

My 2 squirrels are about 4-5 weeks old and they seem to do the same exact thing. I have them in a plastic container with holes all around it and the heating pad is on the bottom under a fleace blanket. They seem to also sleep on their backs alot. I also hope to find out if this is normal. They are hydrated and eat well active and are a crazy pair. Maybe its comfortable lol?:crazy

[Rhapsody]

I've been rehabbing for 5 years now and I can say that about half of my babies sleep on their backs...... I think its a personal thing just like it is with people
--some of us sleep on our backs while others sleep on their side or belly - Its WHAT ever feels right / while at other at times they can be saying --

"HEY LADY - its a little to HOT in HERE - give ME some Non-heated SPACE Please" ..... :D :thumbsup

[MiriamS]

The handful I've worked with have slept in every position imaginable, including their backs (often). I'm not so sure it's a temperature thing but Jackie gave you good advice. A thin cloth napkin or towel on top of the heating pad and a thin one inside the cardboard box. Leave the box half on the heating pad and they'll have options if they are too hot or cold. I believe they should feel "very warm" to the touch. Where in Virginia are you, as I might be able to help and we have a number of other TSB members in VA.