A baby red squirrel is being nursed back to health thanks to the work of volunteers.
Penrith and District Red Squirrel Group are taking care of the kitten who was found by a passer-by in the Beacon area of Penrith last Thursday.
They contacted Center Parcs red squirrel ranger Jerry Moss and a search ensued, with the kitten eventually found under a bush by red squirrel group volunteer Jill.
The injured squirrel was taken to Frame, Swift and Partners veterinary practice in Penrith where they checked it over and administered painkillers, antibiotics and fed it every three hours.
Although improving each day and her back legs getting stronger from some sort of injury, the little red still has a long way to go, the group said.
She still has an upset stomach, but the volunteers are hoping it is due to a medication and change of milk.
Frame and Swift has been updating Jill every day, and this morning, the squirrel was handed over to the care of Sarah and Jerry.
Sarah quickly introduced the latest edition – now called Jill – to the two other reds in their care.
A post on Facebook from the group said: “Feed time went well and Jill took milk from the syringe without any fuss.
“She’s staggered about her small cage and showed the couple how her back legs are getting a little stronger.
“Her tummy still isn’t brilliant but much improved since this morning. It may of started to rain heavily here in the Eden Valley but rest assured little Jill is snuggled up in her fleece hat – which Jill kindly made – and on her heat pad.
“Please join us in crossing our fingers for this little one who would most definitely would have perished if it weren’t for teamwork!”
To donate to Penrith and District Red Squirrel Group, click here
