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CAPE NEDDICK, Maine (WMUR) — If you’ve driven on the highways in New Hampshire recently, you’ve probably seen a lot of dead squirrels, and that means an increase in squirrel orphans.
Animal shelters in Maine are reportedly at full capacity helping baby squirrels, and officials said it has put a big strain on their resources. They are asking for volunteers to help feed the baby squirrels a special food.
Once they’re weaned at about 13 to 15 weeks old, they’ll be released where they were found.
Experts said squirrels play an essential role in the environment.
“These guys are planting our oak forests,” said Kristen Lamb, executive director of the Center for Wildlife. “They are prey for our other larger hawks and owls. Our environment is a big part of our local culture and economy.”
Experts said part of the reason for the increase in the squirrel population this year is a greater amount of food and a longer breeding season.
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