how can I keep my squirrel legally?

[Carefree_Dude]

I want to keep me eastern fox squirrel as a pet. They are considered an invasive species in Oregon and illegal to keep. I see you can get wildlife holding permits for native species but they say nothing about non native. Is there a easy I can keep this guy legally?

[SammysMom]

I don't believe you can do this legally...

[Mommaluvy]

Ditto. I don't think you can keep him legally esp if he is considered invasive.

[farrelli]

Almost no one here has a legally held sq. Everyone's an outlaw. Just make sure you tell no one about him and you should be fine.

[island rehabber]

Your biggest problem is when and if he has a medical issue. You cannot bring him to a vet or any other animal clinic; he will be confiscated and euthanized. You have two choices:

* Prepare him for release if he is a healthy, releasable squirrel.

*Keep him, pray that he does not 'wild up' and bite the crap out of you and everyone around you, and learn everything you can about caring for him from this site. Network with people to get meds. Spend money on GOOD foods and proper caging. If you're in it for the long haul, it's not like just taking in a stray kitten. There is no "Purina Squirrel Chow" that you buy at the grocery and throw down in a bowl.


DO NOT display him or discuss him with neighbors....if they blow you in to Fish & Wildlife, he's dead.

[Chickenlegs]

I have two that are non releasable--and a couple of babies may be compromised. If I share my sweeties, it's anonymous unless I know the person well. Strangers don't know where I live.

[czarina]

And never need to!:Love_Icon