Volunteers use donated knit hats as nests for orphaned baby squirrels

Volunteers in Kuopio have released nine orphaned baby squirrels back into the wild this spring, with two more still in care, according to Savon eläinsuojeluyhdistys (Savonia Animal Welfare Association).

The association has received around 50 donated knit hats, which provide warmth and a secure nesting space for the young squirrels. Volunteers Sanna Aho, Tia Pennanen, and Nox Pennanen have cared for 11 squirrels since early spring.

Squirrel pups are taken in only if found alone and the mother does not return. Sanna Aho advises giving the mother time to reclaim her young before intervening. Local wildlife advisors can offer guidance if needed.

The two remaining squirrels, named Kaija K. Käpy and Jepu Neulanen, arrived in early June. Jepu, estimated at five weeks old, has begun climbing, while the younger Kaija, now furred and gaining weight, has yet to open her eyes.

Care involves frequent bottle-feeding with kitten milk substitute and assistance with elimination. As they grow, the squirrels are introduced to solid foods like nuts and fruit. Once they can move and eat independently, they are released—typically between 55 to 70 days old in the wild.

Handling is kept minimal to prevent taming, though some, like Jepu, require more assistance. Tia Pennanen notes that even hand-reared squirrels quickly learn to avoid humans after release.

Naming the animals helps carers track their progress and origins, the association says.