Hello Hornets,
As you may know, our campus is located near the American River and is home to many different types of wildlife. From turkeys, rabbits, and hawks to the occasional coyote sighting, we're surrounded by a variety of creatures. However, our most common animal neighbors are squirrels. While they might seem friendly and unbothered by humans, it's important to remember that they are still wild animals. They even have their own Instagram
@sacstatesquirrels where you can admire them from afar.
Unfortunately, we've recently had four incidents of students being bitten by squirrels. To prevent any further incidents, we wanted to remind you that feeding squirrels can be dangerous to them and to you. While it might seem like a harmless activity, it can lead to squirrels becoming overly familiar with humans and aggressive when they don't receive food. Therefore, we kindly ask that you refrain from feeding them. It is best to keep wildlife wild in nature.
Help us keep our campus clean and green to protect ourselves and our Sac State squirrels with these quick tips:
- Avoid touching or petting squirrels. They can carry parasites, like fleas and ticks, and spread certain diseases to humans through bites and scratches.
- Avoid feeding squirrels. This interferes with their dietary needs and impacts their development, and behaviors, which allows them to become more comfortable around humans and makes them more likely to approach us.
- Properly dispose of your trash and help keep debris off the ground to deter squirrels from feeding on human food and waste, to keep them safe in their natural habitat.
- If you get a bite or scratch from a squirrel:
- Apply pressure to the wound to slow and stop any bleeding.
- Wash the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes.
- Dry and gently cover with a sterile bandage.
- Visit Student Health & Counseling Services for medical support.
Please keep in mind that while our squirrels may seem approachable and cute, they are still wild animals and should be treated with caution. We encourage you to remain courteous towards them, but please don't attempt to touch or pet them.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. Stay safe, Hornets.
- Stingers Up!