Perhaps you’ll be amazed to find out that ground squirrels, which look so cute and are really smart in the animation films, cause more damage than most big rodents. That’s the reason why it’s important to get them out of your garden as soon as possible right after you find the first signs of invasion. There is a fact that asking for professional control is the fastest way, but it’s expensive. However, it’s certainly possible for you to become a squirrel removal expert and do the job yourself if you read and apply our tips on “How to get rid of ground squirrels”.
General information
First and foremost, it’s important to clearly understand ground squirrels’ features and habits. There are more than 60 different species of ground squirrel, and of course, their appearances are different from one another. However, in general, they all have the same type of diet, shelter and daytime activities. As we all know, squirrels are talented climbers, but according to research, ground squirrels actually spend nearly 90% of their lifetime dwelling in underground tunnels, which they consider to be their safety shelters. Ground squirrels are the most active on warm days, often from mid-morning to late afternoon. Like many other squirrels, their favorite foods are fruits, vegetables, nuts and flowers.
Why should we need to know how to get rid of ground squirrels and control them?
These creatures are ready to damage your garden to get to food such as nutritious fruits, fresh vegetables or even your beautiful flowers. Don’t let them alone and do nothing. More seriously, squirrels are gnawing animals that will relentlessly gnaw on your building structures. Their extensive underground tunnel systems are responsible for soil degradation and for harming the well-being of livestock. Plus, fleas carried by ground squirrels can put human health in danger. Taking everything into consideration, it is crucial to eradicate ground squirrels and prevent them from coming back.
Some Useful Tips on How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels
Under all circumstances, natural methods are given priority.
- Firstly, fencing is a good way to control them. Hardware cloth, or even store plastic makes a good fencing. Fencing must be 18 inches above ground with 6 inches buried in the ground. This height has been estimated to be deep and high enough to keep ground squirrels away from your garden. Use a measuring tape to measure the square you would like to fence off. This method is pretty expensive and only works in small areas.
- Secondly, repellents and odours are other possible solutions. Squirrels hate spicy and hot ingredients, such as pepper, chilli peppers and cayenne pepper. Using these ingredients, you can make up a batch of squirrel repellent in your own kitchen. It’s non toxic and safe. You can sprinkle hot pepper around plants and fruit trees, or wherever you see signs of the animals.
- In addition, you can apply the urine of squirrel predators such as FoxPee or Coyote Urine. They will deceive ground squirrels into believing that their predators are wandering near them. They will then probably change their territory.
- Another option is to apply a bitter tasting natural cream or gel onto building structures or places in your garden where they are feeding. When they can’t find food, of course, they will move to another place in search of new sources.
In general, natural methods are not harmful to ground squirrels and other pets, but they may be not effective enough in the event of a heavy squirrel infestation. Trapping is worth considering. There are two main types of trap: kill traps and live traps. If you want to use kill traps, you need to make sure that killing squirrels is not illegal in your country. Check the kill traps regularly because obviously, you don’t want unpleasant smells from the dead squirrels. Locate baits and traps near ground squirrels’ tunnels. Check them at least once every 2-4 days to release them in time because they can die from a lack of food and water. Release them at least 5 miles away from your house. Keep in mind that the more traps you place, the more effective they will be.
Prevention
Now, you know the main methods for how to get rid of ground squirrels. It’s time to prevent them coming back at all costs. There are some preventative rules to keep in mind. Keep your garden or lawn healthy and clean. Don’t leave any nuts or fruits lying around. Seal up your trash to stop them from getting into it. Keep some cats, which are natural predators of ground squirrels. Plant some mint plants around your garden to try to repel them with the smell.
Conclusion
To round up, ground squirrels look so cute, but their looks can be deceptive. If you see signs of them in your yard, it’s vital to take steps immediately. First try some natural methods if the problem is small, but for a larger problem you may have to resort to calling a professional exterminator in your area. This is a time-consuming task and it will require your patience to follow through and check thoroughly, but the results will be worth it.
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