* Mating Season: Squirrels typically mate in late winter or early spring.
* Gestation Period: The gestation period for squirrels is about 40-45 days.
* Nesting: Before giving birth, the female squirrel builds a nest. This nest can be in a tree cavity, a burrow, or even a birdhouse.
* Litter Size: A squirrel litter usually consists of 3-5 kits (baby squirrels), but can range from 1 to 8.
* Birth: The kits are born blind, deaf, and hairless. They rely completely on their mother for warmth, nourishment, and protection.
* Development: The kits grow quickly, opening their eyes around 3-4 weeks of age and becoming more mobile.
* Weaning: Squirrels are weaned around 8-10 weeks old.
* Leaving the Nest: Young squirrels usually leave the nest around 10-12 weeks old, though they may stay close to their mother for a while longer.
Interesting Fact: Squirrels are precocial, meaning they are born relatively developed compared to some other mammals. This helps them learn to navigate and find food quickly.