Released Squirrels with possible tail injury....

[AliciaintheSC]

Evidently, last night was rough for my released trio. :eek

Acorn has multiple abrasions to his face. None look horrible and I am hoping will heal fine.

Walnut seems to be dragging part of his tail. He comes right up to me (looking for treats) and I see no obvious injury, but don't want to grab his tail and cause more damage or traumatize him. I am assuming that I should just leave him to deal with it on his own and just keep an eye on him. Am I right? Or should I try to bring him in until it heals?

Hazelnut is fine, though. I think he gave me enough worries while I had him in my care that he is not going to worry me now that he is out. lol His coloring sure has changed since his release. He has a line of gray hair growing on top of each of his hips. It is really distinguished looking. :grin3 And his tail hair is filling in quite nicely where his tail was once broken.

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[pjjere]

Hi Alicia, my thoughts are at this point it is probably best just to observe. I think if you notice any open wounds antibiotics may be recommended but hopefully the experts will chime in. If you browse any of the threads you know that squirrels are tough critters. Good luck.

[Fireweed]

Yeah, just keep an eye on it for now and if things look worse, let us know. :thumbsup

Probably every squirrel in my yard has had a tail injury at one point or another - minor to major - and nearly every one has healed fine without intervention. It's one of the most common injuries with squirrels. And it's a good way to tell your squirrels apart - by the different shaped tails due to old injuries! :grin2
Some of the more major problems with tail injuries are when they are broken to the point the whole tail drags (gets caught in things, is constantly wet/icy), or when the fur doesn't grow back (can't help them keep warm in the winter), or when an open wound won't heal (infection). But most often tail injuries in squirrels heal really well on their own - even if their tail looks a bit wonky afterward.

Cute names for your Trio. :)

[AliciaintheSC]

Thanks for the reassurance. I worry about them so much after they are released, especially the ones that I don't see very often after release. I am very happy that they are happy, but I sure do miss them. ;)