Seasonal & Long-Term Care

Some ground squirrels hibernate for months; others use shorter torpor or estivation. Do not create a generic “hibernation temperature.” Species identity, health, body condition and veterinary planning must determine whether dormancy is allowed and how it is monitored.

Natural cycles can affect appetite, sleep, body weight, coat, social tolerance and activity. A long-term care plan should record these patterns so a normal seasonal change is not confused with illness—and illness is not dismissed as “just seasonal.”

• Expect behavior to change. Increased scent marking, vocalization, food guarding, nest defense or aggression can be seasonal.
• Increase choice and distance. Add retreat routes, duplicate resources and reduce forced handling before escalating confrontation.
• Do not punish natural behavior. Modify the environment and handling plan instead.
• Discuss reproductive management with an exotics veterinarian. Long-term decisions depend on species, sex, health and legal status.

Some ground squirrels hibernate for months; others use shorter torpor or estivation. Do not create a generic “hibernation temperature.” Species identity, health, body condition and veterinary planning must determine whether dormancy is allowed and how it is monitored.

• Track body condition more closely. Older animals may lose muscle while gaining fat, so scale weight alone can mislead.
• Shorten difficult jumps or climbs. Preserve activity while adding safer intermediate routes and softer landings.
• Watch dental wear and chewing. Food preference changes can be an early dental sign.
• Increase veterinary monitoring. Ask the exotics veterinarian whether older animals should be examined more often.
• Keep enrichment achievable. The goal is continued choice and activity, not proving the animal can still do juvenile-level challenges.

1. 01
   Food plan: staple diet, treat limits, seasonal forage and how body condition is monitored.
2. 02
   Housing plan: normal enclosure plus backup housing for repairs, illness or separation.
3. 03
   Veterinary plan: primary exotics clinic, emergency option and transport method.
4. 04
   Seasonal plan: expected behavior/weight changes and clear thresholds that trigger a veterinary call.
5. 05
   Continuity plan: identify another qualified caregiver who can take over if the primary caregiver is hospitalized, travels or can no longer provide care.