I just wondered from those who’ve done this for years, do captive NR’s do better indoors or outdoors ? When I got my first three disabled babies three years ago, I assumed , like zoo animals, they would
Thrive best with something as close to their natural habitat as possible . And since we did not have a spare, indoor room, the porch was used. They have acclimated to seasonal changes well, ( but I haven’t and feel the need to provide fans and heat sources as temps . change).
So now , I have the chance to move them to a building of their own. It will have a much SMALLER porch, compared to the huge , open air porch they have now. We could wire the porch , and add a small pet door to allow acces to the inside of this building. Their area inside would be their primary play and feeding area .
I guess my question is, to those who know the minds of squirrels ( better than me!) , would permanent NR’s be happier, live longer, and healthier lives if left to the elements they were created to live in?? Or , would this man - made , climate controlled ( if they choose to be inside) be better for them?? I know what the answer is for ME lol; cleaning, fresher food, NO ANTS, no fans/heaters with wires to guard from teeth... All sounds very appealing to me. But I want what is best for THEM. My husband has just offered to do this project. I want to be very careful , and not make a decision that would stress them in any way.
I have one vote for Yes so far...