Matt R.

An incubator would make a tremendous difference in our ability to care for orphaned and injured squirrels, particularly young squirrels that are unable to adequately regulate their own body temperature.

Our most recent intake included three approximately four-week-old orphaned squirrels. One was an especially small, compromised baby who struggled from the beginning. Despite supportive care, we unfortunately lost him. That experience reinforced for us just how critical consistent warmth, close monitoring, and a stable environment are when a fragile baby comes into care.

Many of the squirrels we receive arrive cold, dehydrated, underweight, or otherwise compromised. Providing a warm, stable, controlled environment is one of the most important parts of supporting them through those critical first hours and days. An incubator provides consistent thermal support while allowing us to minimize unnecessary handling and stress as they stabilize.

It would also help us accommodate multiple intakes and squirrels with different needs at the same time. Wildlife emergencies rarely arrive on a schedule, and having dependable incubator capacity means being better prepared when the next tiny patient unexpectedly needs help.

For us, this equipment would mean greater capacity, more reliable supportive care, and a safer environment for the vulnerable squirrels entrusted to us. Every intake is different, and we want to be as prepared as possible to give each one the best opportunity we can.