Rocky, a Squirrel in Marianna

Rocky, the orphaned squirrel, was discovered on a windy day, similar to today, when a small microburst had swept through a section of woods. With the help of a wildlife rehabilitator, Rocky was placed on a tree (as seen in the photo—his first time outside) to be gradually introduced to the outdoors. He was then temporarily kept in a cage until he was old enough to be released.

In most cases where people attempt to raise wild animals on their own, the animals do not survive. This underscores the importance of seeking a professional wildlife rehabilitator if you find an orphaned animal.

Our dog Gunner barking in the background.

On his first night on his own, I slept in a hammock beneath the tree where he was released. I was worried that something might harm him, so I kept a watchful eye out for any wild animals.

     

Before long, Rocky was ready to mate, and humans gradually stopped visiting him. We spotted him a few times many months later, but he had moved on to another part of the woods, so we didn't try to interact with him. He needed to be as free as a squirrel can be and to be with his own kind. Letting him go was difficult, as we had developed a deep bond with him. He will be missed.

“Who can believe that there is no soul behind those luminous eyes!” ~ Theophile Gautierv

Local numbers if you find an orphaned wild animal:

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators