Meet Gertrude!

If you've been reading my blog for awhile (or if we're Facebook or Instagram friends), you probably know that I've rescued a couple of orphaned baby squirrels. First, in July 2014, there was Herman. Paul found him in our yard after he'd fallen from the nest, and our pit bull Maynard was about to make him into a snack. Fast forward to August 2015, and I found Mable in the yard —same deal, Maynard was about to eat her when I heard her screams for help. Baby squirrels have very loud screams.

I was sort of hoping to make 2016 a squirrel-free year, but last night, around 9 p.m., my neighbor rang my doorbell. When I answered, he handed me a milk crate with a towel inside. He said, "We found a squirrel. Here ya go." And just like that, I'm raising another. Meet Gertrude.

I've learned that, once you get a reputation as the squirrel lady, everyone hits you up when they find an orphaned baby squirel, and they're very common this time of year in Memphis. In August, I fielded a number of Facebook messages and calls from people who'd found squirrels and needed instructions on what to do. By the way, if you find one, there's a great guide to raising baby squirrels here. Or, if you're in an area with wildlife rehabilitators, that's probably the best option. There aren't many around Memphis though, especially in Midtown where I live. And in that case, if you have the time, it's very easy to raise baby squirrels on your own.

I've got Gertie on formula, and I have to feed her every few hours. Her little eyes aren't open yet, but, at about five weeks, they'll begin to crack open. At 12 weeks, I'll release her into my backyard, just like I did Herman and Mable. Herman actually came back to visit me and get pecan treats every day for a year after his release! Mable stuck around for about a month and said, "See ya!" 

I promise to keep y'all posted on Gertie's progress. More cute squirrel pics to come!