Stage 5 — Eyes Open, Burrow Skills & Social Development

• Secure small-mesh enclosure appropriate to the species’ body size
• At least one dark retreat/tunnel and nest chamber
• Clean, dry soil or safe natural substrate for digging
• Low stable objects/rocks/branches for normal ground-level exploration
• Food/water access that minimizes human interaction
• No exposed wire floor as the only surface

WildAgain specifically notes that ground squirrels use tunnels for predator escape, dig extensively and use dust baths; those behaviors should appear in rehabilitation housing as the animal develops.

Offer a balanced high-quality rodent block/chow as the dependable captive nutritional base, then add species-appropriate native grasses, greens, seeds, roots/browse and other natural foods. Some ground squirrels also take insects. Fruit, nuts and high-fat seeds should be limited rather than becoming the whole diet.

Ground squirrels may live in colonies or loose social systems, but that does not mean all individuals should be caged together. Keep healthy siblings together when compatible. Introductions of unrelated animals should only be attempted with same-species, similar-age individuals when the species’ social behavior is known and the animals can be watched closely.

WildAgain specifically reports that unrelated juvenile thirteen-lined ground squirrels may inflict mortal wounds when housed together. Territoriality generally increases after weaning.

• Stop unnecessary petting and carrying.
• Do not let the squirrel play with domestic pets or people.
• Feed through a small access door or visual barrier when possible.
• Provide hiding places before entering the enclosure.
• Use conspecific and natural-habitat cues instead of human interaction for enrichment.

Ground-squirrel care varies by species. The references below cover veterinary neonatal care, wildlife rehabilitation, natural history and release planning; use species-specific ages, social behavior and seasonal timing whenever they are available.