HELP Release cage questions

[Mommaluvy]

I was getting ready to hit PURCHASE when I noticed my 1/4 x 1/4 hard ware cloth was only 23 gauge vs. 19. NO WHERE in my ohio codes or my IWRC minimum standards does this mention Gauge! I do remember a trainer mentioning 19 . But does this matter? I know 23 gauge is a thinner wire... BUT will it matter in this case since none of the codes seem to mention it. BUT.. can the squirrels chew through 23 gauge?

In Ohio they have specs I have to follow.. based on the IWRC/NWRA minimum standards. For instance ONE ADULT squirrel out door release cage has to be 4x8x8. Ohio does not seem to mention what size for Juveniles vs Adults. So my own personal question is.. there is a size difference right between a 12 -16 week old squirrel and an actual adult of one year correct? or not?

So I am building it to be more like the IWRC/NWRA standards for Juvenile pre release and going to 8x8x8 with a double door ( which Ohio is rumored to be really enforcing this year ) . IWRC says that a cage this size is ok for a " litter" which I believe is estimated as under 8 animals.

So.. any ideas here on this gauge question?
One more question.. Is pressure treated OK if the wire is all on the inside of the cage?

[SammysMom]

It will be a bit lighter, but I wouldn't think it would be a worry with 1/4" as opposed to 1/2". Do they require 1/4"?

[Mommaluvy]

It will be a bit lighter, but I wouldn't think it would be a worry with 1/4" as opposed to 1/2". Do they require 1/4"?

No. 1 inch x 1/2 was mentioned for Ohio standards for tree squirrels BUT .. I think that is too big. It is mentioned in the IWRC that 1/2 or 1/4th would be appropriate for them..But 1/4 would be better. Its the thickness of the individual wire I am worried about. Do you think they could chew through the 23 gauge wire ?

[SammysMom]

I understand. I like the 1/2" because it is easier to see them through it. I would go 1/2" heavier gauge rather than smaller holes and lighter wire.