When it comes to animals, a lot of them have above-average intelligence. You look at dogs, cats, horses, elephants, and others, and they all have the ability to learn tricks. In addition to being smart, these and other animals have incredible memories. That’s something you would expect from the creatures mentioned but what about squirrels?
To a lot of people, squirrels are nothing more than pests. They get inside of attics where they can destroy insulation and wiring. They also hide pinecones and acorns under the hoods of cars. But as one squirrel proves, there’s more to them than meets the eye.
Just a baby in desperate need of help
At only four weeks old, one tiny squirrel was brutally attacked by an owl. This poor thing suffered a lot of bad injuries. Initially, no one thought she’d live. But thanks to the love and dedication of a wildlife rescue organization and a family of rehabilitators, she at least had a chance. Only time would tell.
They named her Bella
This rescue organization reached out to the Harrison family. Known for rehabilitating animals, they eagerly accepted the challenge to save this tiny squirrel. First, she needed a name. So, they chose Belle. They hoped she’d heal quickly, allowing them to return her to the wild where she belonged. But this squirrel had something else in mind.
She was so tiny and frail
Just weeks old in October 2009, Bella didn’t even have her eyes opened yet. Even with challenges ahead, the entire Harrison family dedicated itself to do what it could to save this sweet little girl. With years of experience working with this type of animal and already having three others in their care (Larry, Moe, and Curly), they felt confident they could help.
The healing process begins
The Harrison’s placed all four of the squirrels in an outside release cage. The plan was to provide them formula, fresh fruits and vegetables, and the proper medical care needed. When the time was right, meaning the squirrels were healed and old enough, the family would let them go back to living in the wild.
Initially, Bella seemed just like the other three squirrels
While in their care, nothing out of the ordinary stood out about Bella. They provided her and the other squirrels with the same food, love, and medical care. As far as they were concerned, she acted like a normal squirrel. When the day finally came in April, the Harrison family released all four back into nature. That was the end of the story…or so they thought.
Then something strange yet wonderful happened
While Larry, Moe, and Curly were eager to venture out, Bella wasn’t. As Mrs. Harrison stated, “She started to come back for a treat or two within days of being released.” That wasn’t too uncommon as the others did as well. But instead of grabbing the goodie and scurrying off, Bella would stick around. When she showed up, she’d either sit at the front door or peer into the dining room window trying to get the family’s attention.
Things didn’t stop there. For the past eight years, Bella still visits the Harrison family. She’ll stay for a while, eat a treat, and even cuddle up on their laps. While not necessarily a pet, Bella has very much become part of the family. They all love her and she knows it. After all, these were the people who saved her life. To thank them for all they did, she wants to maintain a relationship with them.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
