Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

How old are grey squirrel's eyes when they typically open?

1. 2 weeks

2. 3 weeks

3. 5 weeks

4. 7 weeks

The correct answer is: 5 weeks

Typically, grey squirrel eyes open at around 5 weeks of age. This timing aligns with their developmental milestones, as their sensory systems begin to mature and they transition from a completely dependent state to a more exploratory one. By this age, the young squirrels are becoming more active and are beginning to prepare for the eventuality of leaving the nest. At around 2 weeks of age, grey squirrels are still in a very early stage of development where their eyes are closed, and they rely entirely on their mother for warmth, nutrition, and care. By the time they reach 3 weeks, while they may start to develop more physical capabilities, their eyes have typically not opened yet. It isn't until they reach the 5-week mark that the opening of the eyes occurs, which is an important milestone in their growth as it allows them to start experiencing their environment visually. After 5 weeks, they continue to grow and become more independent, eventually weaning off their mother's milk and becoming foragers.