Some animals change your heart forever. Encountering an Albino Eastern Gray Squirrel is one of those unforgettable moments.
Finnigan was one of them. 🤍🐿️
After more than 10 years by our founder’s side, our beloved albino Eastern Gray Squirrel has earned his wings.
Long before Acorn Acres Wildlife Rehabilitation existed, our founder volunteered with another wildlife rehabilitation facility. As a young squirrel, Finnigan was determined by others to be non-releasable simply because he was albino. Trusting the guidance she was given at the time, she welcomed him into her care and spent the next decade giving him the happiest life she possibly could.
And he was happy. He became a wonderfully spoiled, “bougie” old squirrel who loved his routines, his favorite foods, and all the comforts that came with growing old in human care.
But as the years passed, Finnigan taught us something we will never forget.
He should have had the chance to be wild.
By the time our founder had her own permits and Acorn Acres was born, Finnigan had spent virtually his entire life in captivity. Releasing him at that point would not have been fair to him. So instead, we promised him that his life would have purpose.
Because of Finnigan, our standards changed.
Today, albinism alone is never considered a reason to keep a wild animal in captivity. Every patient is evaluated as an individual. If they have the physical and behavioral ability to survive in the wild, they deserve that opportunity…regardless of what color their fur may be.
We can’t rewrite Finnigan’s story.
But because of him, we can help write a different one for every albino animal that follows.That is his legacy.
Run through the treetops, sweet Finnigan. Chase the leaves, feel the sunshine, and finally experience the freedom you should have known all along.
You were deeply loved. You will never be forgotten. 🤍
