Identifying ground squirrels requires much more than looking out the window and observing a squirrel on the ground. 

Ground squirrels are much larger than other tree squirrels. Their weight ranges from 3 to 15 or more pounds. They have fur that resembles the colors of the earth to help them blend in and hide. Their tails are thinner and less bushy than most other squirrels.

As their name indicates, these squirrels mostly stick to the ground even though they are excellent climbers. Ground squirrels make shelters underground and dig extensive tunnels, which can lead to problems on properties with expensive landscaping or crop fields.

How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels from Yard

Working with a wildlife control expert is best for ground squirrel control and removal. For example, you will receive several options when you call to inquire how to get rid of thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Below are examples of the various options available:

Habitat Modification

If not done correctly, modifying the habitat of ground squirrels can lead to other problems. It’s imperative to get expert advice. For example, squirrels avoid thick vegetation. Allowing areas on your property to grow will keep the squirrels away but may also attract other nuisance wildlife. Creating flooded areas will deter squirrels but may waste much-needed water. A wildlife technician can help you find the proper modifications for your site based on your specific ground squirrel problem.

Repellants

Using repellants to create an invisible fence around your property can help with ground squirrel control. Scents and sounds are recommended for repellants. The smell of coyote urine makes squirrels feel threatened. However, if it is placed in the wrong location, near an excellent food source, or burrows, it will not work.

Applying different sound repellants can keep ground squirrels away. Depending on the issues you are experiencing, an expert can recommend things like predator sounds and ultrasounds. They can also help you determine if you need daytime or nighttime repellants, motion-activated, and remote control.

Toxicants and Baits

Depending on which one, toxicants can be dangerous for humans and are not recommended for getting rid of ground squirrels. Also, you must check state laws to ensure it is legal to use the chemicals. They fall into two categories: first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (FGARs) and zinc phosphide. Hiring an expert can help you choose which can be used in residential areas and for fields only and discuss price differences and effectiveness.

Exclusions and Fencing

Exclusions are techniques specific to each animal causing a nuisance on your property. Install sturdy metal fencing above and below ground around your garden or other parts of your property to deter ground squirrels, including the thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Also, use plastic netting and row covers to protect plants. If you must feed birds, use a squirrel barrier or fill it with the food they hate.

Other exclusion tips include decluttering your yard, maintaining the lawn, installing tree barriers or netting, and keeping branches trimmed.

Ground Squirrel Trapping

Companies such as Critter Control have a safe and humane trapping system that protects you, the squirrel, and the technician. Different types of traps include bait and cage. With both types, you must know which bait to use, where to place the traps, and how to avoid attracting wildlife other than the ground squirrel.

You must also understand local and state laws regarding trapping squirrels. Some are considered fur-bearing game animals and require hunting and trapping licenses. Because they may have diseases, it is illegal to relocate a squirrel to another area. Therefore, you must have a plan for what you will do after ground squirrel removal. Another thing to consider includes regulations regarding testing the squirrel for diseases.

A wildlife expert, like the technicians at Critter Control, can help you each step of the way, from inspection to exclusions.

 

Critter Control near me
Ground Squirrels picture 1

Ground squirrels tunneling or making burrows in your yard? We control ground squirrels. Call your local Critter Control office today at 1 800-CRITTER for effective ground squirrel removal and exclusion services.

Get them out.
Keep them out.®

Experiencing a wildlife or pest issue? We can help! Complete this form and your local Critter Control® office will contact you to assist.
 

indicates required field.

Call For A Fast & FREE Phone Estimate Today
Ground Squirrels Quicklinks

Testimonials

8/28/2023
Great people to work with!
8/28/2023
John with CC has helped us twice in the last six years - first with a minor mouse problem, and then in troubleshooting a mystery animal that was raising a ruckus on the roof. In each case he was friendly, professional, and offered excellent guidance on the practical solutions. Highly recommend him, and this company.
8/26/2023
Squirrels chewed siding of chimney. CC tech came out to assess situation. Fortunately animals not in attack. CC repair team came out and repaired damage and did a fine job. Very pleased with the business, their work and customer service.
8/26/2023
Cannot say enough wonderful things about this company and Joe especially. We recently found a bat in our basement…SCARY! Called and asked for help, Joe came out at 8pm and was able to search the house, capture the bat safely and removed it from our home. His customer service was priceless to me and I highly recommend this company to everyone. Post visit he even sent a team to further assess our property and provide a quote for future needs.
8/25/2023
I saw the Critter Control guy leave my backyard, but my bait station doesn’t look like it’s been touched for years. Aren’t they supposed to open it up and refill it? I haven’t had mice, but I don’t know if that is because the Critter Control system is working, or just luck.
LW
8/25/2023
They helped get rid of bats at our house and were friendly and easy to work with, highly recommend
Connie
8/25/2023
We appreciated the quick response and the careful service by David Gleason. He explained each step of the process. He also returned to reset traps that had been sprung. He was professional and friendly. We highly recommend Critter Control.
Jill
8/22/2023
Bryan was great. On time, professional, friendly. Most importantly, honest. No lies, no fear tactics, no gimmicks. Assessed the issue and was honest about the lack of work that actually needed to be done/was recommended, knowing that other places had dramatized and given several thousand dollar (4k+) estimates on a job that costs a couple hundred dollars. Can't recommend enough. Will be using for any future issues.
8/20/2023
I’ve been using them for several years now. They are great!
Contact Form