Beautiful Baby Bo, a Costa Rican Princess

[agustinanavarro]

Hi!
I’m Agustina.

I live in Costa Rica, on the pacific coast.
A few days ago we found a baby squirrel under a tree after a horrible storm.
It was all by herself (Well... we believe she’s a girl), clearly in shock and a bit damaged.

We couldn’t find any professional help in the area. I live in a rural area with almost no vets and no professional rehabilitators.
The only vet that felt like giving me some advice told me to feed the squirrel with delactosed cow milk, and that’s what I’ve been doing since then.

I believe I did a good job keeping her hydrated the first few days, and also keeping her warm and helping her peeing/pooping: She’s peeing amazingly and no diarrhea at all. I nursed maaaany many puppies (cat and dogs) so I had some experience from that.

But then I started to do some research online and finally found some helpful profesional insights. Apparently I SHOULD NOT be feeding her with cow milk 😩 I’m gonna get some puppy formula at the vet tomorrow first thing.

I was able to find out she’s around 3 weeks. I’m feeding her according to this (I mean amount of cc and times a day). She looks like she’s growing healthy since I found her 9 days ago.

I will post some pictures/videos of the day we found her and some from just a few minutes ago.

I would like to get some advice, and would love to now is she’s developing alright.

I’ve read about the gaping when nursing and I felt very relieved. She does that all the time. Apparently no inhaling, never seen her nose bubbling or any weird noise. She’s getting way more curious and active lately, making it a bit harder when feeding her.

Also, I’m little concerned because today I realized her ribs show a bit. Is this normal?

Of course now I know cow milk is a NO, I will be switching to formula right away.

Please I’d be happy to get some advice to help her grow happy and strong for her future released life.

[CritterMom]

Aw, she is gorgeous! What is her name:

This: https://www.henryspets.com/1-baby-squirrel-care-guide/ is an EXCELLENT no nonsense guide to helping to care for these babies. It is 6 pages - read through it and I know you will find it helpful. It is written based on the US but is still very important.

I have sent private messages to a couple who are members here who live on the Pacific coast of CR as well and may be able to help you too.

If you have trouble finding puppy milk, a homemade formula can be made from goats milk, yogurt, heavy cream and egg if you can find the ingredients.

[agustinanavarro]

Thanks so much for your kind reply!

Her name is Bo ❤️ We were not sure of her gender at first (Well, still aren’t much 😂) So we went for something that could be both male/female.

She’s really beautiful right?

I’ve just read the entire guide you sent me. SUPER useful. I think Bo might be a little bit dehydrated, not extremely. But I’m starting with hydration process right now.

I’m also positive about the fact that the milk I’ve been feeding is not helping her develop AS healthy as she should. I’m switching to homemade formula today. Luckily, I’ll all be able to find all the ingredients easily.

Again, thanks for your help.

I’ll be touching base frequently to show how Bo’s doing.

❤️

Agustina

[CritterMom]

Take a photo of the pertinent parts and we will sex her for you. I am saying "her" because usually if people are unsure, it is a girl. Both of them have "outies" but boys really advertise!

[agustinanavarro]

Here it goes!
Excited to know :)

Thanks once again!315192

[island rehabber]

:Welcome Agustina! As I was starting to read this thread and scrolling down, I see your baby Bo and in my head I said "Aww, she is gorgeous!" scroll down some more to find that CritterMom beat me to it with those exact words :grin2. I know you have two varieties of tri-color variegated squirrels there, and Bo's deep gold coloring is the more unusual.

Sounds as if you are right on point with what you're doing for her, and the puppy milk will definitely be better than any type of cow's milk. See if you can find Esbilac with an expiration date of 10/2021 or later -- OR, Royal Canin puppy formula. There is so much information here and also on that excellent Henry's Pets site, you should be fine -- but keep asking questions and we will keep responding. :grin2

PS: Yep, SHE is a beautiful little girl!

[agustinanavarro]

Oh I feel very happy I’ve found this forum. I really really needed some expertise help and the kind words are such a motivation!

Thanks to all of you ❤️

Oh... So baby Bo is -for fact- a beautiful baby girl! Thanks for this confirmation.

I’m already working on finding some of those puppy’s formula, or getting some goat milk in the next few hours.

I’ll keep you all posted.

Thanks once again!

[island rehabber]

I’m already working on finding some of those puppy’s formula, or getting some goat milk in the next few hours.

!

Remember if you do find Esbilac, it MUST have an expiration date of 10/2021 or later. This is what I used this season and it was fine. Certain lots of Esbilac, prior to that date, were extremely problematic and you don't want to use it. Good luck!

[agustinanavarro]

Great! Thanks for that tip. I’m running to town and see what I can find, I’ll keep that information in mind when getting something!

Oh thanks thanks thanks so much!!!!!!! ❤️

[stosh2010]

HOLA Amiga...
Welcome to the BEST place for Squirrel Lovers and INFO. If you go to the top of this page --under the WHAT'S NEW ?---you will see "Private Message". Click on that and respond (to me ) in another private message. Do not post your phone # or address info on line-- on the public forums. We have been on TSB since 2010. I'm glad to help and answer questions--You will have PLENTY of those...ha.
We will talk on the phone later today...and we will get you aimed in the right direction. Your BO is a BEAUT...different coloration from our Golden ones here.
The golden (Oscuro) was released and returned for treats.
The baby (Mancha) was released (much later )and disappeared into the trees.
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[stosh2010]

I see the ears have "popped out" from being flat against the head--the open eyes are next...

[agustinanavarro]

Hi again!

I made it to town and couldn’t find any place (pet shop-vet) with puppy formula. All out of stock 🙈

So, I’m going for the homemade formula. Already got some fresh goat milk, yogurt, cream and eggs. Formula is ready now. Any advice on this? Should I just mix the ingredients, leave it rest for a while and it will be ready?

I’m using the recipe from Henry’s.

Can I keep this formula on the fridge for a couple days/hours? I will warm it up a bit before feeding baby Bo.

She will be ready to eat soon, I’m excited to start feeding with formula. Seems like delactosed cow milk was not feeding her with the right amount of nutrients/vitamins/proteins she needs. I trust she will grow stronger from now on.

Oh, and I’m happy I found somebody in this forum who’s from the pacific coast in CR as well, and with a lot of experience with squirrels from what I can tell 🤓
I’ll keep you all posted :)

Thanks once again.

[CritterMom]

Keep the formula refrigerated - discard after 2 days. You can freeze the formula by the way - pour into an ice cube tray, freeze, then pop out into a plastic bag and return to freezer. That way there is way less mess and you can do a fresh one every day which is best.

If your baby was pooping normally with the lactose free milk, I would be more comfortable having you do a slower transition. Mix up half of the new formula and half of what you were using before and feed that for two feedings. Then do 3/4 new formula and 1/4 old stuff and if all is still looking good in the poop department, go to the full strength new goatsmilk formula and none of the lactose free milk.

If she is having loose poops or other stomach related issues right now, let us know.

[agustinanavarro]

Hi!
It's me and Bo again. Now that I found TSB I'm gonna be asking sooo many questions!

So, we started with the homemade formula feedings. Did as I was told, and started progressively mixing 50% delactosed milk and 50% formula. Let's see how it goes.

I've been reading some posts, and something got me thinking. Is the baby supposed to poop right after every feeding? Because she's actually not doing that. She poops probably every day around two times, a small amount. Let's say around 2 pellets a day. Now I'm thinking maybe this is not enough. Pee is perfect tho, she pees a lot right after every feeding when we do the massage in her belly and genitals.

I'm also wondering about my syringe. You'll see the one I'm using in the photo. I will get a 1cc syringe tomorrow in town as I think that would be more appropriate. The first days I was using the dropper seen on the picture, but then gave up on that cause I read it could cause inhalation. She actually did better with the old dropper, seems like feedings got extremely slow with the new syringe. Is this normal? Just wanna make sure I'm doing things right for my Bo.

Last but no least, I'm attaching some shots of a video from the last feeding. After every drop of formula she makes this weird movements. I was thinking those were the gaspings/spasms I've read about, but still don't feel sure about it. I hate when she does that, it scares me. This spasms usually last a few seconds and then she's totally back to normal, looking for the syringe or the human touch again. And me, I get my breathing back after those panicking seconds...The movements are some sort of contraction, she starts pushing with her hands, and the she goes into total fetal position for a while.

I'm also attaching a photo of the day she was found so you can see the progress, and a photo of those 2 brand new teeth...the sweetest thing I've ever seen ...:Love_Icon

Thanks to everybody :grouphug
On behalf of myself and especially Bo.

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[stosh2010]

OK...Absolutely--do not use that 10 cc/ 10ml syringe...WAAAAY too large... and way too easy to screw up. Start with (1 cc / 1ml ) syringe and after her eyes open-- and feedings are regular and easier...you can go to a 3 cc. Make sure the squirrel's head is above the nipple during feedings--NEVER below. Make sure the formula is warm to your touch...NOT hot. A squirrel's body temp. is a few degrees above ours.
When you get your syringes get several of the 1 ml/cc and one or two of the 3 ml/cc. it makes feeding easier when you can have the syringes full, warm and ready to feed.
What is Bo's weight in grams today-- and what was it (in grams) when you got her ? Has it been 10 days ? Hopefully you will see the weight rise each day...once the proper formula is located. I recommend you start a small journal with daily weight notations, feeding amounts, and any issue that arises and how you solved it. It will be so much easier to review ----than it is to remember---trust me. I used LACTOL powdered puppy formula for my first couple of squirrels and they did OK on it. Avoid ANY formula that mentions kittens--not good at all for squirrels. With the mail in Costa Rica being on hold...there is no way to get any supplies from the US. (bummer).
Poop will be sporatic, As small as Bo is, she is absorbing everything she eats and probably doesn't have much to poop out. The regular pee is a good thing. Massage / stimulate at every feeding. I use a sheet (one square)of soft toilet paper twisted into a "cone" and tickle the genitals ...and stroke up and down. As she pees-- you will see the tissue change color-- so rotate the paper to a dry section,,,and replace with a new one when it is all wet.--Stimulate the anus also. Sometimes I could actually see that it caused my babies to work their butt muscles ---and pellets appeared. First pellets will usually be black from Mom's milk and will gradually go gold or brown with formula feedings.Good Luck.---and-----------------Thank you so much for saving this little one. She will grab hold of your heart and you will NEVER be the same.315211

[CritterMom]

Poops: If you were feeding just lactose free milk, they baby likely wasn't really getting enough fat and solids to need to poop after every meal. She should start doing that soon with formula change. Do you have a way to weigh her? A gram scale is a really good thing to have so you make sure you are feeding enough - but not too much. If you hold her in front of you under the armpits with her legs dangling down after feeding, her tummy should be the shape o a teardrop and if you feel it, it should feel like a half filled water balloon - soft and squishy, never drum tight.

The 1cc syringe is best at this point and I don't ever use anything larger than a 5cc when they are big and nearly weaned. You need to be able to control the flow of the formula because they are more than happy to suck way more in than they can swallow which is what leads to aspiration. She is still small and frail - once those eyes open, feeding becomes more of a full contact sport, and you need equipment that prevents them from sucking the syringe dry. Smaller syringes give you that control.

I do NOT know what is happening with these spasms - but they are NOT what we refer to as feeding spasms. That is when they begin to gape their mouths open - they look like goldfish at the surface of a pond - it is phantom nursing behavior. Hopefully once she starts getting more correct formula this will cease.

[stosh2010]

At this age and this small size, even a cardboard box will serve as a nest box. They need to feel safe so get fleece for them to bury themselves under. NO TOWELS or wash cloths, The thread design on all terry products (towels) can cause their tiny claws to catch and as they struggle to get loose--- broken limbs are not uncommon. A soft t-shirt will work...but fleece is best and doesn't hold moisture like other fabrics.. A sealed plastic bottle with warm --to very warm-- water, wrapped in a tee shirt and placed in one end of the nest box allows Bo to seek warmth when she wants and she will crawl away when she is warm enough. It will stay warm for about 45 min to an hour ..Then re fill with more warm water.
Feedings at this age are EVERY 4 hours---6 times a day--all through the night. After eyes open the feedings can be spread out a little...but for now...she needs regular nourishment...her Mom would be giving night feedings --and now YOU'RE her Mom......
LOW noise LOW light are important...--eating and sleeping would be ALL she did if still in her outside nest....
No animals to interact with Bo...EVER...if she is to be released when she gets older. Do you have a dog or cat in the house???



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[island rehabber]

agustinavarro, she is truly a stunning baby girl! She's almost bronze....never seen a CR squirrel who was quite that color before. I must gently disagree that what you describe are not feeding seizures -- I believe they ARE, and have seen that exact repetitive motion with the pushing of little paws and then curling under, so stiffly that you cannot uncurl her for a second or two. Fortunately this is a rare (for me, having raised about 270 squirrels) type of feeding seizure and can drive you INSANE, but it WILL stop. Eventually. :D Sometimes blowing in her face gently or lightly tapping the top of her head will bring her out of it.

[CritterMom]

agustinavarro, she is truly a stunning baby girl! She's almost bronze....never seen a CR squirrel who was quite that color before. I must gently disagree that what you describe are not feeding seizures -- I believe they ARE, and have seen that exact repetitive motion with the pushing of little paws and then curling under, so stiffly that you cannot uncurl her for a second or two. Fortunately this is a rare (for me, having raised about 270 squirrels) type of feeding seizure and can drive you INSANE, but it WILL stop. Eventually. :D Sometimes blowing in her face gently or lightly tapping the top of her head will bring her out of it.

Wow! I have never seen nor heard of that! And I thought Mister P was going to drive me nuts with the guppy mouth thing - I would have had a breakdown with that! Thank you for pointing that out!

[agustinanavarro]

Hi y'all!

Sorry for not touching base with you earlier.

Things are looking quite good! But of course, I still have some worries I'll share with you :grin2

First of all, thanks for all the advice on the syringe thing. I already got some 1cc syringes, and they blowed my mind. God! Such a difference when feeding. Almost no chances of screwing it up, way easier to handle, and Bo seems to love them as well. We are now feeding on the homemade formula, and with new syringes. Believe it or not, she's doing her seizures A LOT LESS.

I hate when she does that, it scares me to death. I'm relieved it's some way of weird seizure, and I feel positive that it will eventually go away, as it's starting to fade right now.

Bo is eating with so much enthusiasm. Also, I'm hydrating her every few hours in between meals. I think she's a bit dehydrated...not sure why... But I can see her ribs a bit and her skin looks quite attached to her body, kind of "raisin-like". That worries me. I did the pinching test and it actually does take a few seconds for her skin to go back to normal. Any suggestions on this? :(

She's still peeing a lot and frequently, and yesterday night she did poop during her massage :w00t It was just one small beautiful pellet. Nothing more so far.

She's still very active and curious. She really seems to feel OK.

Here are some pictures from a couple minutes ago.


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[CritterMom]

She looks bony. How much formula are you feeding and how often are you feeding it?

[agustinanavarro]

Yes, she does.

I've seen a chart somewhere (can't find it right now) which determined a 3-4 weeks baby had to be fed 1.75cc-2cc per feeding, 6 times a day. I'm actually feeding her around 3cc, or even a bit more...because she looks hungry when I'm done with the 2cc, like if that wasn't enough for her at all. She keeps biting/sucking my fingers hoping to get some formula out of it. Specially now that we've switched from delactosed cow milk to homemade formula, which she likes A LOT more!

On the other hand, I haven't gone further from 3cc because her belly starts to get bigger and I start to be afraid of ****ing things up.

[Chirps]

I thought she looked bony but assumed it was from the poor diet and hoping she'll pick up in a few days with the better food? In case you haven't read this info before, the link at the bottom of my post may be useful.

[agustinanavarro]

Yes, I'm also assuming her bony shape is a result of a poor diet based on delactosed cow milk. I guess I'm a bit anxious to see her thrive.

According to the Henry's guide I should be feeding her around 2.5cc per feeding, which is almost the 3cc I've been feeding her since yesterday. Hopefully she will start making a way better progress in the next few days with the formula and the 1cc syringe.

I'll keep you guys posted about Bo's next steps :Love_Icon

Thanks!

[agustinanavarro]

Oh and also, a few things I missed answering before.

Bo weighs 52 grams.
She's 12cm large (without the tail)

Unfortunately, I weighted her for the first time past Monday. Haven't weighted her when she was found.
From Monday to Friday she gained approximately 5 grams, and most of the weight was gained in the past 2 days (formula results maybe?)

Now I'm keeping track of her weight, her measurements, her daily feeding/hydrating...Everything is written down on a brand new Bo's notebook.

On another topic, I have 2 super-friendly dogs at home. I've read Bo's not supposed to make friends with them. She shouldn't lose her fear of predators. I get it and I will make sure they don't bond. I really really want to set her free in the trees eventually, and I'll do everything I can to achieve it.

My house is pretty small...a lot of outdoor land, but a tiny house. So the 5 of us (me, my husband, my dogs Fidel & Wilson, and Bo) share same rooms and spaces most parts of the day. Bo has her own little box and I let my dogs smell the box, but not more than that. Any suggestions on this matter?

Well, I think that's it for today!
I'll bring some updates tomorrow.

:bliss

[stosh2010]

My house is pretty small...a lot of outdoor land, but a tiny house. So the 5 of us (me, my husband, my dogs Fidel & Wilson, and Bo) share same rooms and spaces most parts of the day. Bo has her own little box and I let my dogs smell the box, but not more than that. Any suggestions on this matter?



:bliss

One sniff is enough--so they are aware...but don't let it be a habit. Does the squirrel box have a secure lid.? A curious dog can topple a small box --even in fun..with dangerous results. Please make it secure ---and somewhere outside the reach of your pups.



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[agustinanavarro]

Hi!

Updates on Bo.

She's eating amazingly well. Loves formula! She pooped, just a bit, but no diarrhea. Which is a great surprise as I was expecting some of it given to the feeding changes. Still peeing correctly as well.

Bo's box is out of the dog's reach always. Except when I let them smell cause they're a bit curious. The only thing is that we (all of us) share same rooms most of the day. But no squirrel-dog contact.

Here are some pictures of today. I already see he getting fatter and rounder. Did the pinching test again, and now skin is going back to its place immediately. I feel more confident now!

Have a nice weekend everybody :dance

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[agustinanavarro]

Hi!

Some big news ❤️

Bo opened her eyes yesterday. It started with the left one while we were feeding her, and the right one a few hours later. I’m so in love with those tiny eyes...

She’s growing a lot these past days. Feeding her it’s been super easy and she loves it. She also started to poo by herself without the massages. She still gets her massages though. She’s keeping on gaining grams everyday.

Is it posible to know a more accurate birth date now that she opened her eyes?

Now that this happened, should I start introducing some solids to her? Or when should I exactly do it?

Thanks as always for all the advice! ��


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[CritterMom]

She is within a day or so of being 5 weeks old, the little cutie. At 6 weeks you can start putting rodent block only into her little bin. They mess with it and play with it an pee on it for a while before they actually try it, but they will try it. Don't reduce or change her formula feeding though - let the squirrel wean themself when they are ready.

[stosh2010]

Remember--as BO's body weight goes up (in grams) the amount of formula will slowly increase as well. ( 5-7 %)



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[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody!

Well, Bo's growing amazingly these days. She's eating more and more, everyday a bit more active, pooping and peeing perfectly, and sleeping a lot as well.

As you all know, we are located in Costa Rica, and that has made it a bit hard for us to find adequate supplies for our baby squirrel. Now she's almost 6 weeks and we should start introducing rodent blocks to her. I went to every vet and pet shop in town, but couldn't find anything that worked. I've been doing some research in San Jose, our capital city, hoping to get rodent blocks online and have them sent to my house.

The only thing I found is the following - pics attached - Do you think this will work? If you do, I'll order it right away.

On another topic, yesterday we noticed some weird lump on Bo's head. When we looked closer, it was some sort of pimple - We touched it and it exploded as a pimple would do - Of course there's no hair in that tiny spot, and today she has a scab. She didn't have any "accident" that could cause it, so I wonder where did that came from.
Is this something I should worry about? I will attach some pictures tomorrow as today is already dark and the camera is not really showing the lill scab.

Thanks as always!
Here there also are some updated Bo's pics :Love_Icon

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[island rehabber]

Living World is not a bad company, so the blocks may be ok. Can you post a pic of the ingredients list on one of those bags?

[CritterMom]

Living World is not a bad company, so the blocks may be ok. Can you post a pic of the ingredients list on one of those bags?

The ones for the rats - the bunny and guinea pig ones won't work but the ones with the rat just might.

[agustinanavarro]

Hi. First of all, thanks for all the answers!

Here’s some detailed info on the ingredients of the rats blocks, which are the ones I believe would work.

Let me know what you think!! :)


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[CritterMom]

Oh heck. I thought that was for rats, not hamsters. Does this company make anything for rats and mice? Squirrels are WAY closer to them in nutritional needs than things like rabbits and hamsters, which are grass eaters.

[agustinanavarro]

That sucks :( The pet shop that sells those Living World products doesn’t have anything for mice. And I’ve been doing research all day long with no luck at all.

Ordering the blocks from the states will take forever these days. Are there any homemade replacements for the blocks?

On other topics, I got some questions:

- Should my squirrel poop right after every meal? Bo does not. She’s not bloated and she acts 100% healthy and normal.

- I’m noticing Bo’s only peeing/pooping when we stimulate her with massages. But she’s not doing anything by herself. Is this normal? When should we expect her to go to the bathroom by herself?


Thanks ❤️

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody!

It's been a while since I posted updates on my variegated baby, BABY BO :Love_Icon

I'm deeply in love with her. It's magical to see her growing up, and to see her develop into an actual squirrel! :grin2
She's a sweetheart. Still sleeping a lot, but also playful. We added some small branches to her box and she's so happy running over them, and playing by herself.

She's also doing amazing with our homemade formula. She loves it, she eats with such enthusiasm...Also, she's pooping a lot and all by herself. I look at her and I can't believe how much she grew up in the past days. Her weight is now over 115gr.

Some good news: I was finally able to place an order for rodent blocks (and some other supplis) on Henry's :clap I found a cheap and trustable courier here in CR that will ship the supplies from the States.

And thanks to all your help I might be able to make my own blocks in the meantime. I'm so grateful for all the help, really!

Finally, some cute pictures of my chubby baby Bo.

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[island rehabber]

omigosh....she is utterly gorgeous! Good news on being able to get the good stuff to CR. :dance

[Chirps]

You should be proud, Momma! I had to chuckle at the milk mouth. Needed that after seeing another thread. What a charming young squirrelgirl! :Love_Icon

[TubeDriver]

:serene

[Chickenlegs]

The MILKMOUF! Perfection! She is beautiful! Goooood mama!

[Fritzie'sMom]

Hi everybody!

It's been a while since I posted updates on my variegated baby, BABY BO :Love_Icon

I'm deeply in love with her. It's magical to see her growing up, and to see her develop into an actual squirrel! :grin2
She's a sweetheart. Still sleeping a lot, but also playful. We added some small branches to her box and she's so happy running over them, and playing by herself.

She's also doing amazing with our homemade formula. She loves it, she eats with such enthusiasm...Also, she's pooping a lot and all by herself. I look at her and I can't believe how much she grew up in the past days. Her weight is now over 115gr.

Some good news: I was finally able to place an order for rodent blocks (and some other supplis) on Henry's :clap I found a cheap and trustable courier here in CR that will ship the supplies from the States.

And thanks to all your help I might be able to make my own blocks in the meantime. I'm so grateful for all the help, really!

Finally, some cute pictures of my chubby baby Bo.

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She's beautiful!

[agustinanavarro]

Hi there :)

We're still waiting for our Henry's order to arrive to CR any day now. I can't wait to give Bo her healthy blocks. I noticed she started biting and chewing stuff during the past week...She haven't done it before, so I can feel she'll be happy with the blocks.

This week she tried some bananas, and she was euphoric :grin2 She loved them!

She's still having her homemade formula, soon we'll swap to Fox Valley. She eats, poops, and pees a lot.

She's a funny funny girl. :blowkiss

In the next weeks we're gonna start building a huge cage for her, always thinking about releasing day. But in the meantime, we've moved her into our dogs kennel. We've put some fabrics, branches, stones...and God, she's so so happy. She plays all day long, she climbs, she runs, and she sleeps like an angel.

Here's some pictures of her.
Look how grown up she looks! :Love_Icon

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[SammysMom]

Good Lord, she is precious!!! :Love_Icon

[CritterMom]

Nice yawn! Her coloring is beautiful!

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everyone!

I've got some updates on my -not so baby anymore- Baby Bo.

She's almost 12 weeks now. It's amazing how much she've grown in the past few weeks. Not only physically, I can see major personality changes. She's acting much more as a teen now...makes me a bit sad, but happy at the same time.
I'm starting to feel the releasing time is getting closer, and even though that brings me down, I'm starting to realize how badly she needs to be back into nature, where she belongs...

She has spent the past weeks on a dog kennel. It was perfect at first, but not enough after a few days. I started to let her run free into the room we assigned to her (we moved to a bigger house with an extra room for squirrels). And she went crazy: She runs, she jumps, she climbs...She's so excited. She's already doing crazy long-distance jumps...

So we started to build the outdoor pre-release cage. And now of course I have many questions about the next steps. Is she old enough to put her in her pre-release cage? How long should she stay there before releasing?

She's still being fed with Fox Valley formula, and she loves it more than anything. We give her Henry blocks, but seems like she's not much into them yet...Even healthy veggies or fruits are not her thing yet. She prefers milk, always.

I would appreciate any advice on the process during the next few weeks :)

Thanks as always!

Here are some pictures of her and her pre-release cage, which is still "a work in process".

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[stosh2010]

Hi everyone!


I'm starting to feel the releasing time is getting closer, and even though that brings me down, I'm starting to realize how badly she needs to be back into nature, where she belongs...

..

So we started to build the outdoor pre-release cage. And now of course I have many questions about the next steps. Is she old enough to put her in her pre-release cage? How long should she stay there before releasing? About 2 full weeks so she can get used to temperature changes, sounds of day & night in the wild, smells of plants and other animals, and actually being close to the other wild things...squirrels, raccoons, birds, iguanas, skunks, etc. The night time animal list is longer than you might think.


She's still being fed with Fox Valley formula, and she loves it more than anything. We give her Henry blocks, but seems like she's not much into them yet...Even healthy veggies or fruits are not her thing yet. She prefers milk, always.- Give her Fox valley as long as she wants it--healthy and everything her Mom would give her. The blocks are good for her. If she won't chew them...Try grinding them up and add some ciruella (plum) baby food to make a small ball. Have you given her any Almendras ? Ripe ( red or yellow) ones are best. the hard shell under the soft meat will be good for her teeth. Also a coconut to chew will be good for the teeth. Get a brown one and drain it. The coconut water should be offered daily. She should naturally start to chew thru the coconut If she does make a hole in it let her enjoy "some " of the white , sweet meat...but not too much. remove and replace at end of day.


Here are some pictures of her and her pre-release cage, which is still "a work in process".



Is there a tree close to the cage ? (I don't see one in your photo) If possible I like to make a "bridge" from cage to a tree -with a branch to allow Bo to get safely up a tree on release day. I have cats-- from neighbor's yards, and they might attempt to harm her. Once she is in the cage, slowly reduce the amount of time you spend with her . She will be better off in the wild if she feels wild. I talked to my releases but never touched them after they entered the cage. It will be really hard--being Bo is your first. Good Luck.

[stosh2010]

WE built a small 4inch by 4 inch door for the release. We connected this doorway to a nearby tree. This "bridge allowed our released squirrels to leave and return if being chased- or if they decided to spend another night or two in a familiar place. And small enough so a larger critter couldn't enter the release cage.----315688315689315690315691

You should have a small door for changing out the old food for new food...a door that doesn't allow Bo to get out. Have a shelf just inside that food door. Old food on shelf or floor--will attract insects and ants, etc. I actually hosed out the cage every afternoon, when my releases were inside their nest box. She will need a night time nest box inside the cage for feeling safe. That nest box can be transferred to a nearby tree after release..Hopefully she will stay close.315692315693315694


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[stosh2010]

The walls of the cage MUST be hardware cloth wire mesh. 1/2 inch by 1/2 inch is a good size to use. Do NOT use window screening.Screening would allow Bo to claw out and other critters to claw in.YIKES--- Raccoons can get into a LOT of trouble.If the main door is large-You will not be able to open it after Bo is inside. That is why smaller service doors work well. If she gets out and into the trees too early. the soft-release process won't work, She needs time OUTSIDE--but protected.

[stosh2010]

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Beautiful Baby Bo-----------------
You have done a great job raising and caring for BO.

[Chirps]

Exciting and scary time in your and Beautiful Baby Bo's lives. Keeping you in my thoughts as you continue to help your baby find her way.

[stosh2010]

How is your outside cage coming along ?? If you have any new questions...please ask.
Are there a lot of wild squirrels in your area ? > Do you see squirrel nests up in the trees ? Are there many trees close to your home ? Do you have any trees that offer fruit or nuts for the wild squirrels to eat ?


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[stosh2010]

315714315715
SQUIRRELS LOVE---Curtain Rods.....ha
The CRUISER DUDE--was a very Special friend...for over 6 years. I Miss Ya---Dude

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody!

Stosh I love the pic-collages you made!!! Saved forever on my computer :)

Well...we're almost there!!! It's almost release time. Not sure if I'm happy or sad. But Bo is for sure ready. She've spent 3 weeks now on her release cage...so I guess next week will be the D-Day. She's 100% ready...I can see it in her eyes, and I can feel it. She jumps, she has fun, she eats all her veggies and nuts, she chews all the branches, she's under alert when some animal's around, she drinks her coconut water and opens up her own coconuts, she made a nest in her house-shelter, she sleeps at night...she's SO happy and healthy. I even think she has some extra chubby pounds, ha!

I'm just wondering...She's still very hooked on formula. Should I wait until she weans and then release her? I'm just thinking, she loves her milk so much and has it twice a day with so much excitement... and I can't be sure she's gonna be coming back to have it once she's released...so maybe should I keep her? Hmmm...or is it just an excuse of a scared mom not wanting to set her baby free?

I hear you!

Happy weekend!

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody...

Soooo...

Today was release day here in Costa Rica...

I can't even believe it while I'm typing.

Today, 7am of a beautiful sunny day, we poured our coffee into our mugs and - with some sort of heavy heart - we opened the door on Bo's release cage.

I thought it was gonna take a while for her to -actually- leave the cage, but ...to my surprise ... She left the cage immediatly. It was so fast I didn't have enough seconds to panic...Suddenly she was running through the branches like crazy, making what I call "happy" noises...

It's already 3pm here and I'm still sitting in the same chair, just watching her. So far, so good. She stood in the trees nearby, exploring, but not going further than that...

For a few minutes she dissapears, but suddenly I can spot her again into the greens.

At mid-morning, I lost her for some minutes. Suddenly, she jumped out of nowhere in my head...she kissed me, and I thought and assumed she was asking for some formula...So I just fed her. And then, just like nothing, she went back to the woods again...

I see her coming back to her cage every couple hours...I like it...I still feel she's close to us. She has some food and treats in there. Hopefully she'll come back to the cage when the sun goes down.

I'm terrified, I'm afraid something might happen to her. You've all been there, I know. But at the same time, I feel so blessed when I see her running free into nature. I really hope the universe will take good care of her from now on...and I really hope she'll stays around or find a way to always let me know she's OK.

Here are some pictures of this morning's release...I have plenty more videos but unfortunately cannot upload them here.

THANKS SO MUCH TO EVERYBODY HELPING US THROUGH THIS AMAZING JOURNEY...IT WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT ALL YOUR AMAZING ADVICE AND LOVE.

Please send Bo good wishes!!!


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[HRT4SQRLS]

It sounds like a picture perfect release day. :grin2
She is a real beauty.

[Chirps]

Just seeing the update. Awww, that pic of her kissing you is award-worthy. How are things now? Is she coming to say hi and hang with you a bit so far? I hope she stays around and keeps you in her life.

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody!

It's been some amazing past few days...With a bit of anxiety and tension, I think normal feeling of every squirrel mom letting her baby go...

So far everything's going as I prayed for and expected. She stayed in the surrounding trees, we can always spot her around. She comes back once or twice for her treats or formula. But I can see her eating her own stuff up on the trees.

She came back the first 2 nights to sleep into her cage. That was heart-warming.

BUT YESTERDAY...She started working on a nest (how the heck did she know that?)...and, around 6pm, while waiting for her sitting in my outdoor chair, I saw her heading to her nest and getting in there to spend the night... That was heartbreaking...and at the same time, it was amazing.

The nest is up up up one the closest tree to my house, so that was a nice gesture from her...
This morning we woke up and she was having fun up there, and of course she came for some breakfast.

Yesterday, big day, she also met another squirrel for the very first time :)
She was very scared at first, the other squirrel started chasing her, and I can't understand if they were playing or fighting...hmmm...But then they chilled...And started eating coconuts together...Cool moment!

And just right now, 2 new squirrels showed up. I can tell one of them is the one that visited yesterday. Bo got extremely anxious and scared today. She started doing crazy things like coming down to the ground and rolling around in the ground. That was SO weird. And I don't really want her to come to the ground, cause I'm afraid some random cat, dog, or any other potential predator gets her. My dogs love her and they're actually always making sure the area is safe...but who knows, I'm a scared mom... the ground is not a safe place for a squirrel here in the jungle right?

I was wondering if this squirrel encounters should be like these...I really expected her to go up and have fun with her playdates...but it felt more like they were a threat for her, or at least that's what I guess she felt. What should I expect for the next encounters?

I was also wondering, when will Bo be ready to "reproduce"? Is there such thing as a squirrel matting time/age?

I hear you guys!

Thanks for your kind words and for sharing your happiness for Bo!

Have a great day!

[island rehabber]

Sounds like she is doing fine! She SHOULD be wary, she should be spooked by every new noise and sight. That makes sure she is successful in the wild. A relaxed, clueless baby out there is a target for every predator -- a wary one is not. :)

Squirrel mating age is typically 5-6 months old.

[Mel1959]

Squirrels are protective of their space. I don’t think I’ve ever seen wild squirrels “play” unless it’s with siblings. They have all types of protective noises and gestures ie. teeth chattering, chasing etc. and don’t hesitate to use them to keep their territory theirs.

I have always provided a nest box in the trees for my releases, usually after I’ve had it hung in the release cage and they have used it and gotten their scent in it. I do this so they have somewhere to call “home” while they figure out how to navigate the wild. I also think it tends to keep them close to home....at least for awhile.

Since Bo is female she just may stick around. I have a female that was released 4 years ago and still lives in the trees in my yard and has had 5 litters. :serene Females usually go through their first estrus cycle is usually before the age of one. Because you live in the islands and it’s warm all the time she will be able to mate year round, just like our squirrels in Florida.

I’m glad Bo is having such a good time living in the trees. It’s a very rewarding experience, huh?

[agustinanavarro]

Thank you so much for your loving and informative replies!

And yes, you're 100% right...this is such a rewarding experience. I never in a million years would've imagined we were gonna be releasing that tiny creature we've found more than 3 months ago...It's crazy! Comforting...but a bit scary as well!: grin2

Now I feel more afraid of other squirrels rather than predators. Should I expect them to make their peace with Bo and let her hang around peacefully with them?? Or are they trying to bully and kick her out of the territory? :shakehead

My baby gets really anxious/scared when the other squirrels show up and start acting like they own the tree. And the worst part is, I've never seen them hanging around these area/trees THAT much before...:tap


SO wait, you're saying that Bo can get pregnant in the next 2 months or so? Oh gosh...This is a lot to handle! :rotfl

My baby Bo...I love squirrels, all of them, so much...
But my baby...she's so bright, soft, golden, chubby, and precious...She's perfection :blowkiss Just look at her eating her treats! Hahah... Cutest thing ever!

Thank you guys as always,

Much squirrel love to all of you!


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[agustinanavarro]

Just wanted to say hi, and send our love to all those baby squirrels (and not so baby) being nursed and taken care of by amazing blessed human beings like most people in this loving forum.

Bo is doing amazing thanks to you all! She's visiting every morning and having breakfast with us. In the afternoon we see her being happy and free up the trees...and in the evening, she goes to sleep to her newly built nest.

Happy week everybody! Hope to bring a smile to your faces with Bo's sexy attitud :grin2

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[CritterMom]

She is just wonderful!

[Charley Chuckles]

I just saw this thread and I've read it from the start with a huge SMILE 😁
I knew Stosh would be helping you out too :dance
Baby Bo is absolutely a living doll😍 I so love Costa Rican squirrels :blowkiss

What an amazing job you've done with your girl, she was very fortunate to have been placed with you and I know you feel blessed as well :Love_Icon

The pic of her kissing you almost made me cry, good tears however😘

Bo have a wonderful life in the trees darling🌴

LOOKING forward to Bo's adventures 😀

[Chirps]

:yeahthat




Haven't been around much lately. So nice to see that Bo is doing so well, and what lovely pics! :dance

Also looking forward to Bo's adventures.

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody!

It's been already 1 month since Bo's release. It's been so perfect!

She's still around...always been. She already built more than 4 nests in our tree :grin2 (not ours anymore...I guess now it's hers). She comes every day in the morning to get her breakfast snacks, and before going to sleep to get the afternoon treats. In between those moments, we barely know what she's doing...she justs disappears into the woods.

Sometimes a few squirrels come visit...I don't think Bo is too good at socializing, they all start doing the crazy noises, but at least she doesn't look intimidated anymore, she've learnt a lot about being a wild squirrel! I'm impressed about how quick she runs around the trees...she's definitely come a long way...She's way more wiser now...

She's such a happy animal. Brings so much joy to my life to be able to see her everyday, and watch her just being free and playful.

Happy weekend everybody!
Much love from CR :Love_Icon

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[Scooterzmom]

Such a beautiful and wonderful success story!:dance1 Congratulations!!! And many many years of joy to you and your little fur girl! :Love_Icon

[Chirps]

Such a beautiful and wonderful success story!:dance1 Congratulations!!! And many many years of joy to you and your little fur girl! :Love_Icon

AMEN!!!

[CritterMom]

Aw, she is adorable! I have seen those crazy fruit on Stosh's thread. It looks like you would cut it open and a space alien would emerge and eat your face!

[agustinanavarro]

Thanks to everybody for such nice and loving words for my Bo...

Unfortunately today I don’t have as happy news as I did a few days ago, but I’m hoping you’ll confort me with your experience, wisdom, and knowledge...

It’s been 2 days without Bo coming home. She already missed 3 of her meals... There’s no sign of her anywhere ��

We’ve been walking around, calling her name, leaving food out there for her... but she has dissapeared.

For some moments we see a squirrel far far away up in the trees, but it’s not really showing so we don’t know if it’s Bo or some friend of her.

I know it’s normal for them to go out and explore for many days, but it’s so weird to me... she never misses a meal, she has this crazy squirrel routine and she has really stuck to it in the past month.

Should I think something might happened out there in nature? O should I keep my hopes high and expect her to show up in the next few days?

Thank you ��

Come home babe ... momma’s waiting for you ����

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everybody...

So, it's been 16 days since my baby Bo gone missing. She went to sleep on a Sunday evening, I saw her getting into her nest after coming for her dinner...and she was never back from the next Monday on...

No signs of her anywhere...

The past 2 weeks were extremely sad and hard. We miss her so so so bad... We've been crying our hearts out and waiting for her every single day. Walking around, calling her name, leaving her snacks out...

Suddenly, today, same time she used to come for breakfast, SHE WAS BACK. After 16 days...she was back! BUT, she didn't come close to us. She didn't jump on me, or played with me. She didn't even come for her snacks. She just stood at the tree, looking at us. When we saw here in there, we started screaming/crying and calling her...but it was so weird, she just ignored us, and eventually she left...quickly into the woods, again. We run behind her, trying to see where she was heading at...and eventually we lost her into the jungle...

I feel SO happy and relieved that I could see her once again and that she's fine...but I also have this sort of bittersweet kind of feeling. I know FOR SURE it was Bo...but, why wouldn't she come play with me? Why wouldn't she jump into my head? Why wouldn't she ask for snacks after 16 days all by herself?

She definitely was Bo, but a new Bo, like a totally wild Bo...

I'm just wondering if this is something normal, something that just happens...or what?

I'll be waiting for your comments,

Thank as always!

[HRT4SQRLS]

The behavior you just described is completely normal. When their wild instincts kick in most will lose that desire for human interaction. They remember and come back but they won’t let you interact or touch them. Many will keep their distance. I have only had one that would allow me to touch them after release. I have tried to sneak of pet from a couple that were close but I usually got a bite in return. I even had one that would climb on me and sit on my shoulder but I knew if I tried to touch her she would bite me every time. She let me know right away that she had not given permission to touch her.

They will still accept treats but usually want you to toss them and won’t take them from your hands. It has been common in my yard for my releases and the wilds to come for morning treats. I have quite a crowd and I know among the group are those I nurtured. They will always be my babies but the relationship definitely changes. Bo is doing exactly what she should do. She remembers you but her wild instincts keep her safe.

[stosh2010]

HOLA---First let me say--it sounds like you did the PERFECT release, Congrats. Those 2 weeks+ that Bo was AWOL...are every squirrel rehabber's nightmare. So glad she showed up to let you know -----"I'm OK, Mom...but I'm a big girl now". I released my Mancha Girl and she disappeared a few hours later --never to be seen again. I know the heart breaking feeling of loss. I do hope Bo makes random visits . But she might find an area just out of your sight to start her family.
You did GREAT---and your photos are gorgeous. BE Well BE Safe.......--------------Stosh



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[stosh2010]

I made you a memento--
a Beautiful Bo COIN--
She deserves to be on a 500 colone coin, don't ya think ??
( F.Y.I. Costa Rican Currency )

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[Chirps]

I did read your post from 9-29 and wanted to offer words of encouragement, but couldn't bring myself to do it. It felt false to say it while still wondering where my own baby got to. I am so happy for you that she showed up to let you know she's okay. Stosh said it so perfectly, can't add anything except I hope she lets you see her from time to time. I hope she decides to renew the relationship in time and maybe even brings her future babies to meet you and get snacks.

[agustinanavarro]

Hi everyone!

Thanks to all of you for your kind, encouraging words. Thank you dear Stosh for the amazing memento...Brought tears to my eyes and
crazy laughter at the same time.

This is the place where we can all share happy experiences and also, we can share the grief of our babies just moving on with their lives. I can't cry about my squirrel at work, with my friends...they just don't understand... I know you all do, you all know this feeling.

It's been great seeing Bo for once after her disappearance, but at the same time, it felt weird...It broke my heart that she didn't come to me, and it still breaks my heart that she left us :( But, I understand that's just how the rules are...and I'm learning to accept that our job was fully done and that now she's free... And I'm learning to cherish every magic moment we spent together...What a beautiful unexpected experience it has been...

Bo didn't show up again lately, but here we are, always waiting for her...Always buying apples at the market just for her...in case she decides to come visit momma :)

THANKS once again for you support, kindness, love, and for sharing your experiences and feeling with me.

I will keep you always updated... This forum makes me feel closer to my Bo, and to all those lovely fuzzy squirrels out there .

Much love :Love_Icon:Love_Icon

[Barby]

I raised two squirrels this past summer/fall by "accident." The neighbor had a tree cut down and the tree guys brought them down. They were going to do nothing with the babies! I took them, intending to take them to the local wildlife rehaber the next day but they were closed due to Covid. By the time they re-opened, I was too far in. :) The little boy released himself the day after I transitioned them to the pre-release cage. OUCH! I released the little girl three days ago. Oh, no one tells you how this feels! It's hard because we are used to domestic animals who bond with humans; wild animals don't bond the same. I hope you beautiful Bo visits you again soon! It is so stinkin' hard!! I never would have imagined! Hugs!

[stosh2010]

Hi everyone!

Thanks to all of you for your kind, encouraging words. Thank you dear Stosh for the amazing memento...Brought tears to my eyes and
crazy laughter at the same time.



Much love :Love_Icon:Love_Icon
It was my pleasure for a Fellow Costa Rican Fuzz-Head handler....ha. Hope you get to share some "new" Bo photos when she makes her next appearance.

[Charley Chuckles]

My Irma who I released disappears on me, usually when she has babies.
Never give up she's out there, most likely hearing your voice seeing you never to think to give mom a heads up :tap
You did an awesome job being a squirrel mommy 😘