Age of maturity and personality change

[nchls_school]

Peanut, as close as I can figure, is about eight months old. At what age will he be mature? Right now he is a very cuddly squirrel and he was very playful before getting sick (We're hoping the playfulness returns soon). I've read that their personality can change considerably as they age. My wife handles Peanut a lot and is quite attached to him. What kind of changes should she be prepared for?

[Bravo]

Good question, however no easy answer. Every squirrel is different, there is no pattern or particular breed that is better suited to life with humans. As far as I know, there is nothing to be done except treat the squirrel well, and hope for the best. At 11 months, squirrels are sexually mature.

As they grow, the natural need for space and independence also grows. The squirrel may become aggressive, start growling more frequently, swatting and biting, and you'll clearly see the behaviour change. He or she may decide that one person in the house is their person, and become possessive and jealous of attention, or even react to the proximity of other family members to their chosen person. Something to consider... are you in a position/prepared to release if need be?

On the other hand, if Peanut bonds with you and your wife, and has a good home environment with enough freedom both within a cage and out, there is every chance that these wild tendencies will fade- or at least remain dormant- as he matures and grows older.

[nchls_school]

Good question, however no easy answer. Every squirrel is different, there is no pattern or particular breed that is better suited to life with humans. As far as I know, there is nothing to be done except treat the squirrel well, and hope for the best. At 11 months, squirrels are sexually mature.

As they grow, the natural need for space and independence also grows. The squirrel may become aggressive, start growling more frequently, swatting and biting, and you'll clearly see the behaviour change. He or she may decide that one person in the house is their person, and become possessive and jealous of attention, or even react to the proximity of other family members to their chosen person. Something to consider... are you in a position/prepared to release if need be?

On the other hand, if Peanut bonds with you and your wife, and has a good home environment with enough freedom both within a cage and out, there is every chance that these wild tendencies will fade- or at least remain dormant- as he matures and grows older.

Release is not possible. Peanut's jaw and teeth are abnormal; the teeth do not line up and do not wear down naturally. No matter what happens with this squirrel, he will remain in our home, but I do hope he stays the way he is for my wife.

[Bravo]

Ah... got it. I wish I could tell you for certain that Peanut will always be playful and able to be handled. It's entirely possible. :thumbsup

[stosh2010]

I am currently homing 4 (in Costa Rica) Two of my crew, the girls are accepting of me, one (The DUDE) is just a real Softie Boy,
>> and one--Rama Rota...loves my wife but--- would eat me alive if allowed. he -too- was a Softie-boy until about 12 months old....and then WHAM...he attacked and bit my face and arms...
Then there was 4 months of calmness, and again a face attack... He has been with us for 5 years + and I have learned to live with him...just fine.
Rama gets out of cage time EVERY DAY, and I have my Gloves and home-made Helmet at my side ---for the QUICK INSTALL if needed.
My wife has a special bond with all 4....