The squirrel is probably the cutest of all rodents. And, of course, the desire of a person to have this animal in his apartment or on a suburban area is dictated exclusively by aesthetic considerations. In addition, the owner wants the forest beauty to take food from the hands of a person, allow herself to be stroked and, perhaps, even held in her arms. So is it possible?
Instructions
Step 1
Not all squirrels become truly tame. Many of them, despite the long period of their stay next to a person, will never allow, not only to pull themselves together, but even just to stroke or scratch. And do not try to do it by force - the squirrel can scratch or bite quite hard.
Step 2
Keeping an animal interested in getting food is still considered the most effective taming method. The squirrel is simply not fed for several days and then offered food in the palm of your hand. And the animal takes food from the hands of a person (and what else can he do?). However, it should be borne in mind that in this case, the protein is undergoing severe stress. Don't force things or try to pet her or grab her. Feeling threatened, she will use her teeth and claws.
Step 3
The more humane way of domestication will require much more time and patience from you. Don't starve the squirrel. Leave food in the trough, and offer something especially tasty from your hands (nuts, raisins). Observe what food your squirrel prefers and arrange "separate meals" for her. The main ration is from the trough, the delicacy is from the hands. In nature, proteins store reserves, so you don't have to worry - your pet will take as much food as you offer.
Step 4
Only after the squirrel gets used to the owner and begins to fearlessly take food from his hands, you can try to stroke or scratch it.
Step 5
Squirrels very quickly get used to the person who feeds them, remember the feeding time, know their name. A squirrel can be taught to return to its cage at the behest of its owner. But whether she will come up to you when you call her depends on her mood and on whether you guessed to pick up a delicacy. Do not try to achieve more - the squirrel will not obey your commands.
Step 6
Most domestic squirrels remain semi-wild. They perceive the owner only as an inevitable addition to the food they receive and do not feel any desire to communicate or play with a person. If you have managed to achieve any success in taming your pet, do not forget to consolidate what you have achieved with the help of a treat every day.
Step 7
In fairness, it must be said that among the squirrels there is a small percentage of animals (1 out of 10, no more), which themselves show initiative in communicating with humans. If you have just such an animal, then, getting used to it and getting used to it, it will be happy to play with you. However, don't try to treat a squirrel like a cat or a dog. The squirrel will not tolerate any manifestations of tender feelings on your part, it will not allow itself to be squeezed, stroked or grabbed.