So You Want a Squirrel Sidekick? Not So Fast in the Peach State!
Ever looked at those bushy-tailed bandits flitting around your birdfeeder and thought, "Man, I could use a furry little roommate who doubles as a nut dispenser?" Hold your horses (or should we say, hold your acorns?), because in Georgia, squirrel ownership is a definite no-go.
There, we said it. Your dreams of a "Rocky and Bullwinkle" style friendship are gonna have to stay dreams. But hey, before you shed a tear (or two), let's dive into the why and the wherefore of this whole squirrel situation.
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
 |
| Can You Own A Squirrel In Georgia |
Why Can't I Have a Squirrel Buddy?
It all boils down to a couple of key reasons:
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
- Wild at Heart: Squirrels are, well, wild. They may look cute and cuddly from afar, but these critters have strong instincts that can turn aggressive in captivity. Imagine trying to explain "personal space" to a creature who uses your curtains for target practice!
- Not Built for Domesticity: Squirrels have specific dietary needs that differ greatly from your average house cat. Forget Meow Mix, these guys need a variety of nuts, seeds, and fruits to stay healthy. Who wants to explain to your date why the living room is suddenly a miniature forest?
On top of that, keeping a squirrel as a pet is illegal in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources frowns upon such endeavors, and permits for keeping wildlife as pets are not issued for, well, keeping wildlife as pets.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
But I Found a Baby Squirrel! What Should I Do?
If you stumble upon an orphaned baby squirrel, the kindest thing to do is contact a wildlife rehabilitator. These folks are trained in caring for young animals and will give the little guy the best chance of surviving and returning to the wild.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
 |
Resist the urge to play Dr. Doolittle! Baby squirrels require specialized care and a momma squirrel's love (aww...), which you just can't replicate at home.
So, How Do I Get My Squirrel Fix?
While squirrel ownership is a no-go, there are plenty of ways to appreciate these furry acrobats:
- Become a Backyard Birder: Set up a feeder and watch the squirrels compete with the birds for a snack. Entertainment guaranteed!
- Channel Your Inner David Attenborough: Observe squirrel behavior. Do they have little arguments over territory? How do they build their nests? You might be surprised at what you learn!
- Volunteer at a Wildlife Rehab Center: Help care for injured or orphaned squirrels and get your fill of cuteness in a responsible way.
FAQ: So You Still Have Squirrel on the Brain?
- How to Attract Squirrels to My Yard? Set up a feeder with a variety of nuts and seeds. Sunflower seeds and peanuts are popular choices.
- How to Keep Squirrels Out of My Bird Feeder? Use a feeder with a squirrel-proof design, or add a baffle to your existing feeder.
- How to Tell the Difference Between Different Types of Squirrels? Eastern Gray Squirrels and Fox Squirrels are common in Georgia. Eastern Grays are typically smaller and have a gray coat, while Fox Squirrels are larger and reddish-brown.
- How Do Squirrels Communicate? Squirrels use a variety of vocalizations, body language, and scent marking to communicate with each other. Those chattering sounds? Probably not compliments on your landscaping!
- How Long Do Squirrels Live? In the wild, squirrels typically live for 2-3 years.
So there you have it! While you might not be able to share your home with a pet squirrel in Georgia, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy these fascinating creatures. Remember, responsible wildlife viewing is key! Now, go forth and appreciate those squirrels, but from a safe distance!
 |
